Vegan Mexican Red Rice: A Flavorful Side Dish That Steals the Show

Vegan Mexican Red Rice, or arroz rojo, is a staple dish in Mexican cuisine and a vibrant addition to any vegan plate. This recipe captures the authentic flavors of traditional Mexican rice, using simple plant-based ingredients to create a deeply savory, slightly tangy, and utterly delicious side dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan Mexican red rice is:

• Easy to make: With just a few pantry staples and simple steps, you can have this flavorful rice dish on your table in under an hour.
• Budget-friendly: This recipe utilizes inexpensive ingredients, making it a great option for a satisfying and affordable meal.
• Packed with flavor: Tomatoes, onion, garlic, and a blend of spices infuse the rice with a rich and savory depth of flavor.
• Versatile: Serve it as a side dish with your favorite Mexican-inspired meals, or use it as a base for burrito bowls, tacos, or stuffed peppers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Vegan Mexican red rice ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1/2 cup chopped white onion

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup long-grain white rice

• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained

• 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Vegan Mexican Red Rice

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

   Onions and garlic sauteing in a pan

2. Toast the Rice: Pour the rice into the saucepan with the onions and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the rice is lightly toasted and coated in the oil. This step helps to enhance the nutty flavor of the rice.

   Toasting rice for vegan Mexican red rice

3. Add the Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.

   “For a spicier kick,” advises renowned vegan chef, Miguel Santos, “feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño pepper along with the other spices.”

4. Simmer and Steam: Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Then, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly with a lid, and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.

5. Fluff and Serve: After 20 minutes, remove the pot from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Then, fluff the rice gently with a fork. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm as a side dish with your favorite vegan Mexican recipes.

   A plate of fluffy vegan Mexican red rice

Tips for the Best Vegan Mexican Red Rice

• Rinse the rice: Rinsing the rice before cooking removes excess starch, preventing it from becoming sticky.
• Use good quality broth: Vegetable broth forms the base of the flavor, so opt for a high-quality, flavorful broth.
• Adjust the spices: Customize the heat level by adding more or less chili powder, or incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
• Don’t lift the lid: Resist the urge to lift the lid while the rice is simmering, as this releases steam and can affect the cooking time.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice generally takes about 40-45 minutes to cook and may require additional broth.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! This vegan Mexican red rice can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What are some serving suggestions for vegan Mexican red rice?

This versatile rice dish pairs perfectly with vegan tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and tofu scramble. It also makes a delicious base for burrito bowls and can be served alongside grilled vegetables or plant-based proteins.

This vegan Mexican red rice recipe is a celebration of flavor and simplicity, proving that plant-based cooking can be both delicious and satisfying. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a household favorite, adding a vibrant and flavorful touch to your vegan meals.