Jiangsu-style Red Rice

Ingredients

In this adaptation, we incorporate the techniques and flavors of Jiangsu cuisine into the traditional Mexican Arroz Rojo. The original dish typically uses Mexican spices like cumin and chili powder, while the Jiangsu-style Red Rice incorporates Chinese spices such as ginger, garlic, and soy sauce. The cooking method also differs, as the rice is cooked in a tomato-based sauce instead of being sautéed with spices. These modifications create a unique fusion dish that showcases the distinct characteristics of both cuisines. We alse have the original recipe for Arroz rojo, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) long-grain rice 2 cups (400g) long-grain rice
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, grated 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, grated
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 60g, 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
2. 2.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
4. 4.
   Stir in the diced tomatoes, soy sauce, sugar, and salt. Cook for 5 minutes, until the tomatoes have softened.
5. 5.
   Add the rice to the pot and stir to coat it with the tomato mixture.
6. 6.
   Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
7. 7.
   Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
8. 8.
   Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Tomato — Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. If fresh tomatoes are not available, you can substitute with canned diced tomatoes.
• Soy sauce — Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer to reduce the salt content of the dish.

Tips & Tricks

• For added flavor, you can sauté some diced carrots and peas along with the onion and garlic.
• To make the dish more substantial, you can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the rice during the last few minutes of cooking.
• If you prefer a spicier version, you can add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the tomato sauce.

Serving advice

Serve the Jiangsu-style Red Rice as a main dish accompanied by a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. It can also be served as a side dish alongside grilled or roasted meats.

Presentation advice

Garnish the rice with a sprig of fresh cilantro and serve it in a vibrant red bowl to highlight the scarlet hue of the dish. For an elegant touch, you can shape the rice into small molds before serving.