Authentic Mexican Red Rice

Ingredients

• 2 cups (400g) long-grain white rice 2 cups (400g) long-grain white 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 red bell pepper, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup (240ml) tomato puree 1 cup (240ml) tomato puree
• 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 47g, 3g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
2. 2.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
3. 3.
   Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
4. 4.
   Stir in the tomato puree, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. 5.
   Add the rice to the skillet and stir to coat it with the tomato mixture.
6. 6.
   Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
7. 7.
   Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
8. 8.
   Remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
9. 9.
   Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Tomato puree — Use a good quality tomato puree for the best flavor and color.
• Vegetable broth — If you prefer a richer flavor, you can use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a diced jalapeno or serrano pepper to the onion and bell pepper mixture.
• To achieve perfectly fluffy rice, avoid stirring it too much while it's cooking.
• Leftover red rice can be used as a filling for burritos or served as a base for a Mexican-inspired bowl.

Serving advice

Serve the Authentic Mexican Red Rice as a side dish alongside your favorite Mexican main course, such as enchiladas, tacos, or grilled chicken. It also pairs well with a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

Presentation advice

Garnish the rice with a sprig of fresh cilantro and serve it in a colorful Mexican-inspired bowl or on a vibrant plate to enhance its visual appeal.