Fluffy tomato-seasoned arroz rojo
Mexican Rice
Prep Time
5 min
Cook Time
25 min
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4
4 cups
Difficulty
Easy
Cost
Budget
$
Mexican Rice
Fluffy tomato-seasoned arroz rojo
★4.7(12)
Perfectly fluffy rice cooked in a savory tomato broth with onion and garlic until every grain is infused with flavor. The essential Mexican side dish that belongs on every plate.
5m
Prep Time
25m
Cook Time
30m
Total Time
4
Servings
Easy
Difficulty
Budget $
Cost
Sarah Chen
(Updated )
Mexican rice, or arroz rojo, is the backbone of Mexican cuisine and appears alongside nearly every dish. The secret is toasting the rice until golden before adding the tomato broth.
Mexican cuisine is one of the most vibrant and flavor-forward traditions in the world. This recipe captures that spirit with accessible ingredients and techniques.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Rinse rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain well.
- 2
Heat oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add rice and toast, stirring frequently, for 5-7 minutes until golden.
- 3
Add onion and garlic, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 4
Stir in tomato sauce, broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to the lowest setting.
- 5
Cover tightly and cook for 18-20 minutes without lifting the lid. Remove from heat and let steam for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
Serving Suggestions
Ways to Serve This Dish
Serve with warm corn tortillas and fresh lime wedges
Top with crumbled queso fresco and sliced avocado
Pair with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans
Substitutions
Tomato sauceBlended fresh tomato
More authentic but slightly more work
Long-grain riceJasmine rice
Slightly stickier but works well
Tips & Storage
Pro Tips
Do not lift the lid while the rice cooks or you will release the steam needed for fluffy rice.
Rinsing the rice removes excess starch and prevents sticky results.
Let the protein rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
Season each component individually rather than seasoning at the end — this builds deeper, more complex flavor throughout.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Label with the date and recipe name.
Reheating
Sprinkle with water, cover, and microwave for 2-3 minutes, or warm in a covered skillet.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (0mg) · 4 servings
Calories280
LowModerateHigh
A moderate-calorie serving · based on a 2,000 cal daily diet
Protein5g
Carbohydrates8g
Fat46g
Fiber420mg
Sugar1g
Sodium2g
Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is my rice sticky?
- Make sure to rinse the rice well and toast it until golden before adding liquid.
- Can I add vegetables?
- Add peas, diced carrots, or corn in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Explore More
About Sarah Chen
Sarah Chen is a professional recipe developer and food editor with over a decade of experience in test kitchens and food media. She trained at the Culinary Institute of America before spending six years developing and testing recipes for national food publications, where she honed her ability to translate restaurant techniques into approachable home cooking. At RecipePool, Sarah leads recipe development, ensuring every dish is tested at least three times for clarity, accuracy, and genuine deliciousness. When she is not in the kitchen, she is browsing farmers markets and collecting vintage cookbooks.
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