Mexican Rice(Arroz Rojo)
Mexican Rice (Arroz Rojo) is a flavorful, toasty rice dish infused with tomato and onion, perfect as a side for Mexican meals or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute rice, onions, and garlic until rice changes color (turns whiter and begins to toast).
- Add tomato sauce; stir until rice is coated.
- Add 2 cups of water or broth and let simmer until water is almost evaporated.
- Add the remaining 1/2 cup of water or broth.
- Simmer until the liquid is evaporated and rice is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of water. If you're out of tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes can work as substitutes, just adjust the liquid accordingly. Toasting the rice until it's light golden can add a nutty flavor. For added spice, toss in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cumin. This recipe pairs beautifully with Easy Low-Fat Chili.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Mexican Rice as a side dish with grilled chicken or beef, or as a base for a flavorful burrito bowl. It also pairs well with Cilantro Dressing drizzled on top. For a complete meal, add black beans and avocado slices, or enjoy it alongside Tortilla Soup Salad for a fresh twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water and cover the container to steam the rice, preventing it from drying out. You can also reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Rice(Arroz Rojo) contains roughly 697 calories, with 6g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 59g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value) and protein (11% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Mexican Rice ahead of time. Cook the rice, then cool and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat it with a little broth or water to restore moisture and flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This way, you can enjoy a flavorful dish that's perfect for vegan recipes as well.
What can I add to make this rice more filling?
To enhance the heartiness of your Mexican Rice, consider adding cooked beans, such as pinto or black beans, during the last 5 minutes of cooking. You can also mix in some corn or diced bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).