Mexican Red Rice is like the fiesta in a bowl that you’ve been waiting for. Picture a vibrant dish, bubbling with flavors of tomatoes, garlic, and spices dancing together as if they’re at a salsa party. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, making your family come running faster than you can say “taco night!” This dish isn’t just a side; it’s the star that steals the show during family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Lobster Tail recipe.
Every time I whip up this Mexican Red Rice, it brings back memories of my abuela (grandma) teaching me how to cook while swatting away my clumsy attempts at chopping vegetables. She always said that good food comes from love—and maybe a dash of chaos. Whether it’s taco night or just a Tuesday that needs some spice, this rice transforms the ordinary into extraordinary. Trust me; your taste buds will be throwing their own fiesta!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Mexican Red Rice is super easy to prepare, even if you’re kitchen-challenged.
- Its bold flavor profile combines sweet and savory notes that make every bite memorable.
- The vibrant red color adds visual appeal to any plate, turning simple meals into festive occasions.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to work as a side dish or even as the main event in your meal planning!
Ingredients for Mexican Red Rice
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Long-Grain White Rice: About 1 cup is perfect; it cooks up fluffy and absorbs all those tasty flavors.
- Vegetable Oil: Use about 2 tablespoons for sautéing; it helps prevent sticking and adds richness.
- Garlic: Two cloves minced will give your rice that aromatic kick.
- Onion: Half a medium onion diced adds sweetness and depth; use yellow or white for best results.
- Tomato Sauce: A cup of tomato sauce provides the beautiful red hue and tangy flavor; opt for low-sodium if preferred.
For seasoning:
- Cumin: Just a teaspoon enhances the earthy undertones in the rice beautifully.
- Salt: Season to taste; start with half a teaspoon and adjust based on preference.
For garnish:
- Cilantro: Freshly chopped cilantro adds brightness and freshness before serving!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Mexican Red Rice
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Rinse the Rice
Start by rinsing one cup of long-grain white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch, ensuring fluffy grains rather than sticky clumps.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a medium saucepan, heat two tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add one diced onion and two minced garlic cloves, cooking until they are soft and fragrant—about three minutes.
Step 3: Toast the Rice
Add the rinsed rice to the pan with onions and garlic. Stir it around for about five minutes until it turns slightly golden. This step really boosts that nutty flavor!
Step 4: Add Tomato Sauce
Pour in one cup of tomato sauce along with one teaspoon of cumin and salt (to taste). Mix everything well so each grain gets coated in goodness.
Step 5: Cook It Up
Add two cups of water to the pot. Bring everything to a boil! Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and let simmer for about twenty minutes or until all the water has been absorbed.
Step 6: Fluff and Serve
Once cooked, remove from heat but let it sit covered for an additional five minutes. Then fluff with a fork before serving! Garnish generously with chopped cilantro for that extra pop.
Transfer to plates and watch everyone dig in—this Mexican Red Rice is sure to be a hit at any meal!
You Must Know
- This delightful Mexican Red Rice isn’t just a side dish; it’s a culinary hug that warms your heart.
- It pairs well with almost any main course, and its vibrant color and flavor will steal the show at your dinner table.
- Perfect for family gatherings or taco nights!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic in a bit of oil until fragrant. Then stir in rice to toast it lightly before adding tomatoes, broth, and seasonings. Cook until the rice is tender and fluffy for the best results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add black beans, corn, or diced bell peppers to your Mexican Red Rice for an extra burst of flavor. You can also swap out spices like cumin for chili powder or add fresh cilantro for a fragrant finish.
Storing & Reheating
To store leftover Mexican Red Rice, place it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of water to keep it moist and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always rinse your rice before cooking to remove excess starch, ensuring fluffier grains.
- Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness.
- Let the rice sit covered after cooking to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
Sometimes, I whip up this Mexican Red Rice when friends drop by unexpectedly; their eyes light up like it’s a fiesta! It brings warmth and laughter, making every gathering memorable.
FAQs :
What is Mexican Red Rice?
Mexican Red Rice, known as “Arroz Rojo,” is a traditional dish that features short-grain rice cooked with tomatoes, onions, and spices. The vibrant red color comes from pureed tomatoes or tomato sauce, which infuses the rice with rich flavor. Often served alongside beans and meat, this dish is a staple in Mexican cuisine. Its delicious taste and beautiful presentation make it a favorite for family meals and gatherings.
How do you make Mexican Red Rice?
To prepare Mexican Red Rice, rinse the rice to remove excess starch, then sauté it with onions in oil until lightly toasted. Next, blend tomatoes with garlic and add this mixture to the pot along with chicken broth. try with a side of French toast Simmer until the rice absorbs the liquid and becomes tender. Finish with fresh herbs like cilantro for an extra burst of flavor. This simple yet flavorful process makes it easy to enjoy at home.
What dishes pair well with Mexican Red Rice?
Mexican Red Rice pairs beautifully with various dishes. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or steak for a hearty meal. It also complements tacos, enchiladas, or barbecued meats perfectly. pair with crunchy roasted chickpeas For a lighter option, try pairing it with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. This versatility makes Mexican Red Rice an ideal side dish for any occasion.
Can I make Mexican Red Rice in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Mexican Red Rice in advance! Cooked rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm it on the stove with a splash of water to restore moisture. Making it ahead saves time during busy weeknights while ensuring you have a delicious side dish ready to go.
Conclusion for Mexican Red Rice :
Mexican Red Rice is a delightful addition to any meal, characterized by its vibrant color and rich flavors. With simple ingredients and easy preparation methods, this dish brings joy to family gatherings and everyday dining alike. explore our diverse recipe collection By exploring different pairings and making it ahead of time, you can enjoy this versatile side dish whenever you wish. Embrace the warmth of Mexican cuisine by adding this recipe to your culinary repertoire today!
Mexican Red Rice
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
Description
Mexican Red Rice is a vibrant, flavorful dish that embodies the heart of Mexican cuisine. Bursting with the rich tastes of tomatoes, garlic, and spices, this rice elevates any meal into a festive celebration. Perfect as a side dish or a standalone main course, it’s quick to prepare and will leave your family asking for seconds. With its stunning red hue and enticing aroma, Mexican Red Rice promises to impress at family gatherings or cozy dinners alike.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ medium onion, diced
- 1 cup tomato sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cold water until clear to remove excess starch.
- In a medium saucepan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onion and minced garlic until soft (about 3 minutes).
- Add rinsed rice and toast for about 5 minutes until slightly golden.
- Stir in tomato sauce, cumin, and salt; mix well.
- Pour in 2 cups of water, bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes or until water is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (185g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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