How to Make Mexican Red Rice
Mexican red rice is a vibrant and flavorful dish that is a staple in many Mexican households. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it a perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking to add some color and flavor to your dinner plate, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make Mexican red rice.
Ingredients
Before you start cooking, gather the following ingredients:
– 2 cups of long-grain white rice
– 1 cup of red chile powder (ancho chile powder is a popular choice)
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes, drained
– 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of oregano, and 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
Instructions
1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.
2. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Stir in the red chile powder and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the powder to toast and release its aroma.
5. Add the rinsed rice to the pot and stir well to coat each grain with the red chile powder mixture.
6. Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
7. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let the rice simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
8. Remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to finish cooking and absorb any remaining liquid.
9. Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you like (cumin, oregano, and paprika).
10. Serve the Mexican red rice alongside your favorite Mexican dishes, such as tacos, burritos, or enchiladas.
Now that you know how to make Mexican red rice, you can enjoy this colorful and flavorful dish in the comfort of your own home. Happy cooking!
