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Authentic Restaurant-Style Mexican Rice (Arroz Rojo)

A close-up of a white bowl filled with vibrant orange Mexican rice recipe, topped with fresh cilantro.
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You can recreate the flavorful, fluffy Mexican rice you love from your favorite restaurants right in your own kitchen. This recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps to deliver authentic Arroz Rojo every time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 1/2 medium white onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium tomato, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup tomato sauce
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 cup frozen peas (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a medium saucepan or pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the rice to the hot oil and toast, stirring frequently, for about 5 to 7 minutes until the grains turn light golden brown. This step is key for fluffy Mexican rice.
  3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the diced tomato and tomato sauce. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring to coat the rice evenly.
  5. Pour in the broth, ground cumin, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  6. Once boiling, reduce the heat to the lowest setting, cover the pot tightly with a lid, and simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid. Do not stir during this time.
  7. After 15 minutes, remove the pot from the heat. If using, gently stir in the frozen peas.
  8. Keep the pot covered and let the rice steam off the heat for another 10 minutes. This helps the rice become perfectly fluffy.
  9. Fluff the Mexican rice gently with a fork before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Notes

  • Toasting the rice properly is essential for achieving that restaurant-style, non-sticky texture. Watch it closely so it does not burn.
  • For a richer flavor, use high-quality chicken broth instead of water. This is a great way to add depth to your Mexican side dish.
  • If you prefer a smoother sauce base, blend the tomato, onion, and garlic with the broth before adding it to the toasted rice.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://mdlatdmm.com/mexican-rice-recipe-authentic-fluffy-quick/