What is Mexican rice?

Mexican rice, also known as arroz rojo, is a staple side or main dish in Mexican cuisine. It is characterised by its reddish hue from tomatoes or tomato paste, and a bunch of warm spices like paprika and cumin. It is simmered with a mix of garlic, onions, and spices, offering a savoury, slightly tangy flavour profile.

What to serve with Mexican rice?

Serve your Mexican rice with classic sauces and dips such as salsa and guacamole. You can also add a dollop of sour creme for freshness and top with fresh avocado, more beans, freshly made Pico de Gallo, or fresh herbs like coriander. It can easily be served as a full meal, but if you want to use it as a side, it also pairs well with grilled meats, tacos, enchiladas, and fajitas.

How to make Mexican rice spicy?

Elevate the heat by adding diced jalapeños, extra cayenne pepper, chilli powder, or a splash of hot sauce while cooking. The extra kick complements the savoury flavours and fits perfectly with the guacamole and sour cream on the side. Do add extra spice gradually to avoid the rice becoming too spicy.

What to do with leftover Mexican rice?

Transform leftover Mexican rice into a new meal by using it as a filling for burritos with cheese and salsa, enchiladas full of cheese, or stuffed peppers mixed with ground meat, chicken strips, or more vegetables. You can also mix it into a rice salad, stirring in fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing. Or serve it as a base for a delicious rice bowl topped with grilled chicken, avocado slices, and a drizzle of fresh lime juice.

What is the difference between Mexican rice and Spanish rice?

In terms of traditional and authentic cuisine, Mexican rice and Spanish rice represent two distinct culinary traditions. Mexican rice is a specific dish from Mexico with tomato, onion, garlic, and spices. The ingredients impart a characteristic orange or red colour to the rice. Traditional Spanish rice dishes, such as paella, are different and include a variety of ingredients like seafood, meat, and saffron, which gives it a distinct yellow colour.

Mexican Rice

30 mins cooking time

Strap on your apron and embark on a culinary journey to traditional Mexican cuisine. Our authentic Mexican rice recipe presents a world of spices, vibrant colours, and deep flavours. Served with a myriad of toppings and sides from traditional Pico de Gallo to creamy guacamole, you will want to make this time and time again. Savour the many flavours and cook up this dish for an easy weeknight dinner or to impress guests at the weekend.

Mexican Rice

30 mins cooking time

Method

Melt butter and sauté onion and garlic in a pot. Add peppers and cook for 2 minutes.

Add rice and mix well. Add spring onion, corn, and beans. Mix well and add spices.

Season with salt and pepper and add water until it reaches 1 cm above the rice.

Bring to a boil, cover, and lower the heat to the lowest temperature. Cook for 15 minutes.

Add coriander and butter to the rice. Cover the pot for 5 minutes, then fluff the rice with a fork.

Place the rice on a serving platter and garnish with fresh coriander and spring onions.

Add avocado and Pico de Gallo and serve with sour cream, salsa, and guacamole.

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Mexican Rice

Mexican Rice

Method

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