Homemade Spanish Rice Recipe (2024)

FAQs

What is the difference between Spanish rice and Mexican rice? ›

One of the main differences between these two rice dishes is that Mexican rice is fluffier and tends not to stick together. Whilst Spanish Rice is known for that rich yellow color, Mexican Rice is best known for its reddish orange hue that it gets from being cooked with cumin.

Spanish rice and Mexican rice are terms used interchangeably to refer to a similar dish. They both typically consist of rice cooked with various ingredients such as tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices. The main difference lies in the flavor profile and additional ingredients used.

Add the right amount of water.

For every cup of rice, use about 1 ½ or 1 ¾ cups (350 or 400 ml) of water. Short grain rice needs slightly less while brown rice needs slightly more. Avoid adding too much water, however. Too much water may make the rice mushy.

Spanish cooks don't tend to obsess over particular rice varieties (though Bomba and Sènia are sometimes found) and would never think of using anything but short-grain rice, as long-grain lacks the capacity to absorb liquid in the way that Spanish cuisine needs it to.

Why does Mexican restaurant rice taste better? The method used to make Mexican rice involves lightly frying the uncooked rice in oil which helps it absorb more flavor from the seasoning and cook to a perfect consistency. In addition, a traditional blend of spices and diced vegetables and potatoes create unique flavor.

Did you ever wonder why Mexican rice is a red-orange color? Cumin is the answer. It provides that nutty and spicy taste and is the famous culprit for the red-orange color. Cumin is always an ingredient in this rice.

Substitute Tomato Paste For Tomato Sauce

If you have a can of tomato paste in your pantry, you are in luck—this is the best substitution for tomato sauce. All you need is the tomato paste and water. Mix together 1 part tomato paste and 1 part water until well blended. Then, season your "sauce" to taste.

Mexican rice (sometimes referred to as Spanish rice or red rice in Tex–Mex cuisine), also known as arroz a la mexicana, arroz mexicano, sopa de arroz, or arroz rojo in Spanish, is a Mexican side dish made from white rice, tomato, garlic, onion, and perhaps other ingredients.

Tips to make best Mexican rice:

Always rinse the rice with water to remove starch from the rice and then soak it in water prior to cooking. This makes the rice fluffy and does not stick.

For tender grains of rice that easily separate, such as in a pilaf, use 2 cups of water for every 1 cup of rice. You can also use another liquid like stock in this 2:1 ratio. For slightly chewier, fluffy white rice, use 1 1/2 cups of water for every cup of rice, or a 1.5:1 ratio.

What is the trick for mushy rice? ›

Mexican vs. Spanish Rice

I'm not sure why but I've noticed that people tend to use these terms interchangeably, but Mexican rice is NOT the same as Spanish rice! Spanish rice uses saffron and is usually more of a yellow color. It is also firmer than Mexican rice, which tends to be more on the fluffy & soft side.

Best substitute for paella rice is risotto rice (arborio rice) which has similar characteristics ie. ability to absorb lots of liquid, except risotto goes creamy if you stir it. The next best is medium grain rice – the same rice I use for rice pudding.

You'll find crispy rice known as socarrat in a great Spanish paella, nurungji as a Korean scorched rice or maybe you are familiar with a platter of Persian Tahdig. Some cultures simply call it bottom pot. Once seen as an aftereffect, it is now something designed into dishes.

Best substitute for paella rice is risotto rice (arborio rice) which has similar characteristics ie. ability to absorb lots of liquid, except risotto goes creamy if you stir it. The next best is medium grain rice – the same rice I use for rice pudding.

If you're a fan of homemade Mexican food, a good Mexican rice recipe is a must. Often referred to as Spanish rice or “arroz rojo,” this classic dish features long-grain rice simmered in a tomato-infused broth, seasoned with onions, garlic, cumin, and chili powder — lending it that iconic reddish-orange color.

Mexican rice is one of the healthiest ways to eat rice! The tomato adds so many antioxidants. And you get more fiber, vitamins and minerals by cooking your rice with a variety of vegetables like you do in Mexican rice.

"The yellow aspect comes from tangy achiote powder, also known as annatto. From Mexican: Healthy Ways With a Favorite Cuisine."