Arroz Rojo Recipe: Easy and Authentic Mexican Rice - Maricruz Avalos
Arroz Rojo is a classic Mexican dish that is known for its vibrant red color and rich flavors. It is a staple in Mexican cuisine and is often served as a side dish to complement various mains. This traditional recipe is easy to make and will transport your taste buds straight to Mexico.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the rice and toast it for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until it turns golden brown.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in the tomato sauce, ground cumin, paprika, and salt. Cook for a minute, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
5. Remove the skillet from heat and let the arroz rojo rest for a few minutes. Fluff it with a fork, sprinkle with fresh cilantro, and serve hot.
This delicious Mexican rice pairs perfectly with a wide range of dishes such as tacos, enchiladas, or grilled meats. Its vibrant color and savory flavors add a touch of authenticity to any meal. The combination of aromatic spices, vegetables, and tomato sauce creates a delightful harmony of flavors that will leave you craving for more.
How to Prepare:
Preparing arroz rojo is a straightforward process that can be completed in just a few simple steps:
- Toast the rice.
- Sauté the vegetables.
- Add the spices and tomato sauce.
- Pour in the broth and simmer.
- Fluff and serve.
With these easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll have a delicious batch of arroz rojo ready to enjoy in no time.
Preparation Time:
The preparation time for this arroz rojo recipe is approximately 10 minutes. However, the total cooking time, including simmering, is around 25-30 minutes.
Servings:
This arroz rojo recipe serves 4-6 people as a side dish.
Nutrition Facts:
While arroz rojo is a tasty addition to any meal, it’s also important to be mindful of its nutritional content. Here is a rough estimate of the nutrition facts per serving:
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Protein: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
Please keep in mind that these values may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.
Tips:
Here are a few tips to ensure your arroz rojo turns out perfectly:
- Use long-grain white rice for the best results.
- Toast the rice before adding other ingredients to enhance its flavor.
- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro for an extra pop of freshness.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
A: While white rice is traditionally used in arroz rojo, you can substitute it with brown rice. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may be longer and the texture slightly different.
Q: Can I make arroz rojo in a rice cooker?
A: Yes, you can use a rice cooker to make arroz rojo. Simply follow the instructions and adjust the cooking time according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
With its vibrant color, aromatic flavors, and delightful texture, arroz rojo is a must-try dish for lovers of Mexican cuisine. It’s a versatile side dish that will elevate any meal and impress your family and friends. Give this easy and authentic recipe a try and let yourself be transported to the streets of Mexico.
