Arroz Mexicano (Mexican Rice)

Arroz Mexicano (Mexican rice) is a vibrant and flavorful side dish that complements any Mexican meal beautifully. This fluffy rice, infused with tomato and spices, can be ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or festive occasions, it’s a staple that adds both color and taste to your plate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This arroz Mexicano can be made in just 27 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Base: Infused with a homemade tomato sauce and spices, each bite is bursting with authentic Mexican flavors.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair this rice with tacos, enchiladas, or grilled meats for a complete meal.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients from tomatoes and onions, it’s a wholesome addition to your dining table.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the fluffy texture and delightful taste of this classic dish.

Tools and Preparation

To make Arroz Mexicano successfully, having the right tools on hand is essential. These tools will help you prepare this delicious dish quickly and efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large stock pot
• Blender
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stock pot: A spacious pot ensures even cooking of the rice without overcrowding.
• Blender: Essential for creating a smooth tomato sauce that blends perfectly with the rice.
• Cutting board & Knife: These tools make chopping vegetables quick and safe.

Ingredients

For the Tomato Sauce

• 2 tomatoes (quartered)
• 1/4 onion (quartered)
• 1 garlic clove
• 1 cup water
• 1 tbsp chicken bouillon

For the Rice

• 1/8 cup olive oil
• 2 cups long grain white rice
• 1/4 onion (finely diced)
• 1 garlic clove (finely minced)
• 1 tbsp chicken bouillon
• pinch whole cumin
• 1 1/2 cups water

How to Make Arroz Mexicano (Mexican Rice)

Step 1: Make the Tomato Sauce

1. Cook the tomatoes, onion, and garlic in 4 cups of water on medium heat.
2. Boil until the tomatoes are soft, about 4–5 minutes.
3. Let cool before blending.
4. In a blender, combine the cooked tomatoes, onion, garlic, 1 cup of water, and bouillon.
5. Blend until smooth and set aside for later use.

Step 2: Prepare the Rice

1. Heat olive oil in a large stock pot over medium heat.
2. Add the rice, stirring constantly until it begins to toast for about 5 minutes.
3. After 4 minutes of toasting, add the finely diced onion.
4. Keep stirring; otherwise, the rice may burn.
5. Look for a golden color in the rice before proceeding.
6. Add the finely minced garlic, chicken bouillon, whole cumin, remaining water, and reserved tomato sauce.
7. Stir everything together until well combined.
8. Cover the pot and cook on medium heat for 12 minutes.
9. Once done cooking, turn off the heat but let it rest covered for an additional 5 minutes.
10. The tomato sauce will rise to the top; uncover and mix gently to combine all ingredients before serving.

Enjoy your Arroz Mexicano as a delightful addition to your next meal!

How to Serve Arroz Mexicano (Mexican Rice)

Arroz Mexicano is a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with various meals. Whether you’re enjoying it with festive dishes or a simple weeknight dinner, there are numerous ways to serve this delightful rice.

With Tacos

• Soft or hard shell tacos filled with your favorite ingredients complement the fluffy texture of Arroz Mexicano perfectly.

As a Base for Burrito Bowls

• Layer Arroz Mexicano as the base of your burrito bowl, adding beans, cheese, and fresh veggies for a hearty meal.

Alongside Grilled Meats

• Serve Arroz Mexicano next to grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp for a satisfying combination of flavors.

With Enchiladas

• Pair your rice with cheesy enchiladas, allowing the rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

In a Fajita Platter

• Use Arroz Mexicano in a fajita platter with sautéed bell peppers and onions, offering a colorful and flavorful dining experience.

As Part of a Mexican Feast

• Include it in a spread alongside guacamole, salsa, and quesadillas for an authentic Mexican feast that everyone will enjoy.

How to Perfect Arroz Mexicano (Mexican Rice)

Making perfect Arroz Mexicano requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your rice turns out fluffy and flavorful every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh tomatoes and spices enhance the flavor of your rice, making it taste more vibrant.
• Toast the Rice – Toasting the rice before adding liquids helps achieve that perfect texture and prevents it from becoming mushy.
• Monitor Water Ratios – The right water-to-rice ratio is crucial. For long grain white rice, typically 1 cup of rice needs about 1.5 cups of water.
• Let It Rest – After cooking, let the rice rest covered for a few minutes. This allows steam to finish cooking the rice perfectly.
• Stir Gently – When mixing in the tomato sauce after cooking, stir gently to avoid breaking up the grains of rice.
• Season Well – Adjust seasonings like bouillon and cumin based on personal taste preferences for an even more delicious dish.

Best Side Dishes for Arroz Mexicano (Mexican Rice)

Arroz Mexicano pairs well with many side dishes that enhance its flavor profile. Here are some great options to consider serving alongside it.

1. Refried Beans – Creamy refried beans add protein and richness to your meal and complement the flavors of Mexican rice.
2. Guacamole – The coolness of guacamole provides a refreshing contrast to spicy dishes and enhances overall enjoyment.
3. Pico de Gallo – This fresh salsa made with chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeños adds brightness.
4. Corn Tortillas – Warm corn tortillas can be used to scoop up both the rice and other dishes, providing a satisfying crunch.
5. Grilled Vegetables – Charred bell peppers, zucchini, and onions bring smoky flavors that work wonderfully with Arroz Mexicano.
6. Chiles Rellenos – Stuffed peppers filled with cheese or meat offer a hearty choice that complements the lightness of Mexican rice.
7. Ceviche – A light seafood ceviche brings acidity and freshness that balances out heavier main courses very well.
8. Mexican Street Corn (Elote) – Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayo and cheese adds rich flavors that pair deliciously with your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Arroz Mexicano (Mexican rice), it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Ignoring the Toasting Step: Failing to toast the rice can lead to a bland flavor. Always toast the rice until it is golden for a richer taste.
• Not Using Enough Liquid: Adding too little water may result in undercooked rice. Follow the recipe closely to ensure proper texture.
• Skipping the Resting Time: Cutting short on resting time can affect the fluffiness of your rice. Let it rest with the lid on for optimal results.
• Overcooking the Tomato Sauce: If you boil the tomato sauce too long, it may lose its fresh flavor. Just cook until the tomatoes soften before blending.
• Stirring Too Much: Constant stirring during cooking can cause the rice to break down. Stir only as needed to prevent burning and achieve that perfect texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Arroz Mexicano in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Arroz Mexicano (Mexican Rice)

• Place cooled rice in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Arroz Mexicano (Mexican Rice)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covering with a damp paper towel, and microwave in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water to a pan and reheat over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Arroz Mexicano (Mexican Rice).

How do you make Mexican Rice?

To make Mexican Rice, toast long-grain white rice in oil, then combine with a flavorful tomato sauce made from tomatoes, onion, garlic, and spices.

What is the difference between Spanish rice and Arroz Mexicano?

Spanish rice often includes additional spices like saffron or turmeric for color. In contrast, Arroz Mexicano focuses on simple ingredients like tomatoes and broth for flavor.

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but adjust cooking times as brown rice typically requires more water and longer cooking time than white rice.

What dishes pair well with Arroz Mexicano?

Arroz Mexicano pairs beautifully with tacos, enchiladas, or grilled meats. It’s a versatile side that complements many Mexican dishes.

Final Thoughts

Arroz Mexicano (Mexican Rice) is not just a side; it’s an essential part of any Mexican meal that brings warmth and comfort. Its fluffy texture and rich flavors make it delightful alongside various dishes. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste!