6 January, 2024
Mexican Rice Recipe | Arroz Rojo | Red Rice
Mexican Rice, also known as “Arroz Rojo,” “Red Rice,” or “Spanish Rice,” is a flavorful dish often prepared as a side dish in Mexican cuisine. It is commonly made with ingredients like Tomatoes, Onions, Garlic and various Spices. However, variations exist based on regional preferences and personal adaptations.
While traditional recipes maintain authenticity, modern renditions introduce innovative twists to the classic dish.
Mexican Rice: Beyond a Side Dish
While commonly served as a side dish, Mexican Rice has the potential to elevate various recipes. It can be used in Casseroles, Stuffed Peppers, or even in Sushi Rolls, showcasing its adaptability.
Naming Confusion
Mexican Rice, often referred to as Spanish Rice, is a staple in Mexican cuisine rather than Spanish Cuisine. Despite the name similarity, the dish is not a part of traditional Spanish cooking.
The confusion arises from the term “Spanish Rice,” which might imply a connection to Spain. Mexican Rice is a distinct dish with its own unique preparation and flavors that are more closely associated with Mexican culinary traditions.
While both Mexican and Spanish cuisines have rice-based dishes, Mexican Rice, often called Spanish Rice, is indeed a part of Mexican culinary heritage rather than Spanish cuisine.
Traditional Recipe of Mexican Rice
Traditional recipe often involves toasting the Rice in Oil with Onion and Garlic before being simmered with a blend of diced Tomatoes, Broth (usually Chicken or Vegetable stock), and Spices. This traditional cooking process is one pot recipe which allows the Rice to absorb the flavors of the Spices and Tomatoes, resulting in a fragrant, slightly tangy, and aromatic side dish.
On the other hand, the recipe I’m sharing today incorporates Veggies, Beans, and pre-cooked Rice. This is a quicker and convenient method, making this dish suitable for those seeking a fast and efficient way to create with added vegetables and protein, without compromising on taste.
From traditional Arroz Rojo to vegetarian or vegan adaptations, a plethora of recipes cater to diverse taste and dietary preferences.
Let’s get started with the recipe.
Here is the Mexican Rice recipe using pre-cooked Rice, Beans and some Veggies which is a satisfying and nutritious dish that can be served as a main course or as a side dish alongside other Mexican favorites like Tacos or Enchiladas.
INGREDIENTS:
| 2 cups White Rice (cooked) |
| 2 tsp Oil |
| 1 Onion (finely chopped) |
| 2 cloves Garlic (minced) |
| ¼ cup Carrots (chopped) |
| ½ cup cooked Beans (Black Beans or Kidney Beans) |
| ½ cup Boiled Sweet Corns |
| 1 Bell Pepper (diced) |
| 1 tsp ground Cumin |
| 1 tsp Red Chilli Powder |
| ½ tsp Red Chilli Flakes (optional) |
| 1 tsp dried Oregano |
| 1 tsp Coriander Powder |
| Salt to taste |
| Black Pepper Powder to taste |
| ½ cup fresh Tomato Puree |
| 1 Tomato (Diced) |
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Veggies and Bean Mixture:
- Heat the Oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
- Add the minced Garlic and chopped Onions. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes or until Onion turns translucent.
- Now add Bell Peppers, boiled Corns, chopped Carrots, and boiled Beans and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.
2. Seasoning:
- Sprinkle the Cumin Powder, Red Chilli Powder, Red Chilli Flakes
(if using) dried Oregano, Coriander Powder, Salt, and Black Pepper over the mixture. Stir well to combine and let the spices toast for about a minute. - Pour in the freshly prepared Tomato Puree and bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Final Dish
- Add the cooked Rice and gently stir to incorporate all the ingredients. Cover the skillet and let the rice cook for 8 to 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together by keeping it on low heat.
- Check the Seasoning and adjust it if needed.
- Once the Rice is heated through and the liquid (tomato puree) has been absorbed, add diced Tomatoes towards the end.
- Toss it again and remove the skillet from heat.
- Garnish with chopped Cilantro, Cheese, Nachos and serve the Mexican Rice hot, accompanied by Lime Wedges if desired.
The Mexican Rice recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. You can add other ingredients like diced Jalapeños for some heat or garnish with grated Cheese or Avocado slices. Enjoy this flavorful dish alongside your favorite Mexican-inspired main courses!