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Mexican red rice recipe.

Mexican Red Rice (arroz rojo)

author Maricruz Avalos
10 servings
Mexican red rice is a favorite among everyone. It is so delicious, fluffy, and perfect to serve as a side for many dishes. This super easy recipe is authentic, traditional, and fool-proof!
prep 10 minutes
cook 18 minutes
total 28 minutes
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Ingredients 
Cups (US) - Metric

  • 3 cups long-grain white rice (Mexican, Basmati, or Jasmine)
  • 1 pound tomatoes (cut into quarters)
  • 1 medium white onion (cut in big chunks)
  • 3 ½ cups chicken stock (or homemade chicken broth)
  • 2 cloves garlic (peeled)
  • ½ cup olive oil (or sunflower oil)
  • 1 cube tomato concentrate (or 1 tablespoon tomato paste)
  • salt (as needed)

Instructions
 

  • Place rice in a large bowl and cover with cold water. Stir to remove as much as you can of the starch, then discard the water and repeat the process 2-3 more times.
  • Drain the rice with a strainer and place it over a bowl. Allow to dry for 20 minutes.
  • Place tomatoes in a blender, add onions, garlic, and tomato concentrate.
  • Add 2 cups of chicken stock and blend until smooth.
  • Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add rice and cook stirring constantly until rice is nicely golden.
  • Remove from heat and then use a spoon to discard the excess oil from the pan.
  • Return the pan to the stove and set the heat to high. Wait 8-10 seconds so the rice will heat up again, then add the tomato sauce.
  • Pour the remaining stock, add a pinch of salt, and stir to combine. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
  • Bring to a boil, then cover the pan and set the heat to medium-low.
  • Cook rice for 16-18 minutes without uncovering the pan.
  • Remove the pan from the stove and allow the rice to sit for 5 minutes.
  • Use a fork and gently fluff the rice, combining the tomato sauce that accumulates on top.
  • Serve with your favorite dishes or alone with a fried egg on top.

Notes

  • To allow the rice to dry faster, place it on a plate and spread it nicely. You need the rice to be dry so it won’t splatter when you add it to the hot oil!
  • While frying your rice, make sure you adjust the heat on your stove, so it will fry evenly.
  • Don't lift the lid while your rice is cooking. You need the steam for perfect fluffy rice.
Nutrition Information
Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 277kcal | Carbohydrates: 48g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Sodium: 31mg | Potassium: 262mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 380IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 27mg | Iron: 1mg
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