I had a great time during my college internship in Puebla, Mexico. I joined workshops with locals, a chef, and a small business. I learned to cook and took notes on authentic Mexican cuisine, Tex-Mex cuisine, and Spanish cuisines. Arroz rojo, also known as Mexican rice or Spanish Rice, is a key side dish for meals and any Mexican restaurant.
The BEST recipe is simple and fluffy, offering real quality and taste. This Mexican Red Rice can be red, green, or yellowish, sometimes featuring saffron. This dish is essential for family, kids, and my husband at home in Texas or the Yucatán, especially for Cinco de Mayo and other Mexican holidays.
I have a favourite way to enjoy Taco Tuesday that I still use. Instead of buying microwavable packets, I make homemade Mexican rice without extra fillings. This makes it perfect for Taco Tuesdays or date nights.
I serve it in a bowl with:
- Carne Asada
- Pollo
- Chicken Tacos
- Mexican street corn
- Esquites
- Chiles Rellenos
- Mole poblano
- Poblano
- Red and green salsas
- Pozole
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Authentic Homemade Mexican Rice
I love food, especially when it’s authentic and easy to prepare. Mexican rice is a staple in my home. This Spanish arroz rojo version delivers the best taste. It mixes Tex-Mex flavours, using refried beans, corn, and fresh coriander. It also has a touch of inspiration from cilantro lime rice. I make these meals with love every Tuesday.
I learned to cook by ordering at a Mexican restaurant first. Then, I spent 30 minutes grilling or cooking on the stovetop with my Weber Kettle. I followed step-by-step video instructions. I serve the rice with tacos, enchiladas, Pollo Asado, and other Mexican dishes. This makes meals necessary, good, and satisfying. It shows why this restaurant-style Mexican rice keeps street flavour alive.
How to Cook Fluffy Mexican-Style Rice
In Mexican cooking, I use long-grain white rice as the star of this dish. Compared to brown rice or medium long grain rice, it has less starch, which gives great results. Any home cook will love how this version uses pantry staples and a simple method.
Choosing Long Grain Rice for Fluffy Texture
The rice is the star. I use long grain rice, including Jasmine rice, because it stays separate and cooks evenly. This keeps grains fluffy and prevents clumping.
Using Tomato Bouillon for Rich Flavor
I use tomato bullion, also known as Caldo de Tomate, as a flavour bomb. It’s easy to find in the Mexican aisle, online, or at World Wally. It adds deep colour and taste, similar to tomato paste, tomato juice, or fresh tomato, but stronger.
Enhancing Rice with Chicken Broth
I suggest using Chicken broth or chicken stock instead of plain water. You can also use vegetable broth if needed. This lets the rice soak up more flavour and boosts its nutrients for a balanced diet.
Goya Sazon Packet
The Goya Sazon Packet, also known as Sazon con Azafran, adds colour and mild spice. It gives the rice a bright look without overpowering it.
Jalapeno and Bay Leaf
I add jalapeno pepper, Serrano peppers, and Bay Leaf on top for flavour. If heat worries you, skip the peppers. There’s a legend that whoever finds the Bay Leaf can make a wish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this authentic Mexican food recipe, I keep things essential. I use long-grain white rice, minced garlic, diced onion, and Tomato sauce. I choose vegetable oil, canola oil, or olive oil. Then I add Chicken broth, chicken-flavored bouillon, or chicken bouillon cubes. Seasoning includes Chili powder, ground cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, and garlic salt.
This washing method removes starch and prevents mushy rice. It works in a rice cooker, instant pot, or stovetop. Store leftovers in an airtight container or freezer-friendly bag.
Expert Tips for Flavorful Mexican Rice
Do not lift the lid; rice needs steam. Fluff with a fork, not a spoon. Add Serrano peppers for flavour. Do not stir too much. Cook until translucent. Adjust timing for crunchy or fluffy rice. This also works for Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas or Crock Pot Chicken Tacos.
Best Ways to Enjoy This Dish
Serve with:
- Green chile baked enchiladas
- Ground beef enchiladas
- Carne asada tacos
- Chicken tacos
- Mexican rice and bean casserole
- Slow cooker Mexican beans
- Fajita salad
- Mexican dinner spreads
Add pico de gallo, sour cream, or hot sauce on top.