Mexican Red Rice

Mexican Red Rice, or Arroz Rojo, is a beloved staple side dish from Mexican cuisine, characterized by its vibrant reddish-orange hue and fluffy texture. It is typically made by sautéing long-grain rice with onions and garlic, then simmering it in a broth blended with tomatoes, and sometimes peas or carrots for added color and texture.

🍳 View the full Mexican Red Rice recipe →

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is primarily a source of carbohydrates for energy, with a moderate amount of fat from the oil used for toasting the rice. It provides key nutrients like lycopene from the tomatoes and small amounts of vitamins from the vegetables, with a typical serving containing around 200-250 calories.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	250 kcal
Protein	4.5 g
Carbs	45 g
Fat	6.5 g
Fiber	2.5 g
Sugar	3 g
Sodium	480 mg
Potassium	350 mg
Iron	2.5 mg
Vitamin C	8 mg
Thiamin (B1)	0.3 mg
Niacin (B3)	3.5 mg
Folate	60 mcg
Magnesium	30 mg
Phosphorus	80 mg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

The unique, rich color of Arroz Rojo comes from the tomato base, which is often enhanced by achiote (annatto) in some regional variations. Nutritionally, the tomatoes contribute beneficial antioxidants, making this flavorful rice a more nutrient-dense choice than plain white rice.