🌶️Authentic Mexican Rice Recipe (Arroz Rojo)

Learn how to make fluffy, flavorful Mexican rice like a pro. This easy arroz rojo recipe pairs perfectly with tacos, enchiladas, and more. Beginner-friendly with step-by-step instructions.

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📝 Ingredients:

• 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 cups chicken broth (warm or room temperature)
• 1/4 cup tomato sauce (or 1 small Roma tomato blended)
• 1/4 small onion (finely chopped)
• 1 garlic clove (minced)
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
• Optional: 1/4 cup peas & carrots
• Optional garnish: chopped cilantro or lime wedge

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🔪 Tools You’ll Need:

• Medium saucepan with lid
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Mesh strainer

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👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. Rinse the Rice

Rinse the rice under cold water using a mesh strainer for about 1–2 minutes. This removes extra starch and helps the rice cook up fluffy instead of sticky.

2. Toast the Rice

Heat 2 tbsp oil in your saucepan over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice and toast it, stirring often, for 5–7 minutes or until it turns golden brown. This adds flavor and texture.

3. Add Onion & Garlic

Once the rice is lightly browned, toss in the chopped onion and garlic. Stir and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and soft.

4. Add Tomato Sauce & Broth

Pour in 2 cups of warm chicken broth and 1/4 cup tomato sauce. Add salt and cumin. Stir once to combine, then stop stirring.

✋ Important: After the initial stir, do not stir the rice again. This helps it cook evenly without becoming mushy.

5. Simmer

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer (medium-high heat). Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan tightly with a lid, and let it simmer for 18 minutes.

6. Let It Rest

Turn off the heat but leave the lid on. Let the rice sit covered for 10 more minutes to steam. No peeking!

7. Fluff and Finish

Remove the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork. If using peas and carrots, stir them in now while the rice is hot. Garnish with cilantro or a squeeze of lime if you’d like.

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🍴 Serving Suggestions

This fluffy Mexican rice is a perfect side dish for:

• Chicken enchiladas
• Carne asada
• Tacos
• Fajitas
• Tamales

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🧊 Storage Tips

• Let rice cool to room temperature before storing.
• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat with a splash of water to bring back moisture.

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❤️ Tip from Abuela:

• Want a spicier version? Add a diced jalapeño when you cook the onion.
• Using fresh tomato instead of sauce? Blend one Roma tomato with 1/4 cup water.
• Always fluff with a fork, never a spoon—keep those grains separated like champs.