The 10 Best Types of Rice for Arroz Rojo

As a rice enthusiast, I’ve always been on the hunt for the perfect grains to elevate my arroz rojo.

So, I’ve compiled a list of the 10 best types of rice that will take your dish to the next level.

From the fragrant Basmati to the creamy Arborio, each variety brings its own unique texture and flavor.

So, let’s dive in and discover which rice will make your arroz rojo shine like never before.

Basmati Rice

Basmati rice is a popular choice for arroz rojo due to its long grains and aromatic flavor. When I cook arroz rojo, I want the rice to have a distinct texture and a delicious aroma that enhances the overall dish. Basmati rice delivers exactly that.

Its long grains add an elegant touch to the arroz rojo, creating a visually appealing plate. The aroma that fills the kitchen as the rice cooks is simply irresistible. The fragrance of Basmati rice is like no other, and it infuses the dish with a delightful essence.

Not only does Basmati rice contribute to the visual and aromatic appeal of arroz rojo, but it also provides a slightly nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.

Jasmine Rice

You’ll love the fragrant aroma and delicate flavor of jasmine rice in your arroz rojo.

Jasmine rice is a long-grain variety that originates from Thailand. It has a distinct floral scent that adds a wonderful dimension to any dish.

When cooked, the grains are fluffy and separate, making it a perfect choice for arroz rojo. The subtle sweetness of jasmine rice complements the savory flavors of the dish, creating a harmonious balance.

It also absorbs the rich tomato and spice flavors of arroz rojo, enhancing the overall taste.

Whether you’re a fan of traditional Mexican cuisine or simply enjoy trying new flavors, incorporating jasmine rice into your arroz rojo will elevate your meal to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Arborio Rice

To achieve a creamy and velvety risotto, try using arborio rice. It is known for its ability to absorb flavors while maintaining a chewy texture. Arborio rice, with its starchy grains, is perfect for creating a rich and indulgent risotto.

When cooked, it releases starch, giving the dish a creamy consistency. The grains are short and plump, which allows them to absorb the flavors of the broth, butter, and other ingredients added to the dish.

As the rice absorbs the liquid, it becomes tender on the outside while retaining a slight chewiness in the center. This combination of textures creates a satisfying mouthfeel that is characteristic of a well-made risotto.

Bomba Rice

For a paella that is bursting with flavor and has a delightful texture, consider using bomba rice.

I can personally attest to the wonders of bomba rice in creating the perfect paella. Its short, round grains are able to absorb a significant amount of liquid, resulting in a creamy and rich dish. The texture is firm, yet tender, with each grain maintaining its individuality. The flavor is slightly nutty and earthy, adding depth to the overall taste.

Additionally, bomba rice has the ability to hold its shape even when cooked for a longer period of time, making it ideal for slow-cooked dishes like paella.

Trust me, once you try bomba rice in your paella recipe, you won’t want to use anything else.

Calrose Rice

When cooked, Calrose rice has a sticky and slightly chewy texture, making it perfect for sushi rolls. I love using Calrose rice when I make homemade sushi. Its sticky texture helps hold the rolls together, preventing them from falling apart. The slightly chewy texture adds a nice bite to each piece of sushi, enhancing the overall eating experience.

Not only is Calrose rice great for sushi, but it also works well in other dishes like rice bowls and stir-fries. The grains are plump and absorb flavors beautifully, making every bite delicious. I always make sure to rinse the rice before cooking to remove any excess starch, which helps achieve the desired texture.

Calrose rice truly elevates any dish it is used in, making it a staple in my kitchen.

Carnaroli Rice

You should try cooking Carnaroli rice if you want to make a creamy and luxurious risotto. Carnaroli is often considered the king of Italian rice varieties due to its high starch content and ability to absorb flavors.

When cooked, it releases just the right amount of starch, resulting in a perfectly creamy risotto with a firm and chewy texture. Compared to other rice varieties, Carnaroli is more forgiving and less likely to become mushy.

Its plump grains have a unique ability to hold their shape and absorb the flavors of the broth, butter, and cheese that are essential for a delicious risotto. So, if you want to elevate your risotto game and impress your guests, give Carnaroli rice a try.

You won’t be disappointed.

Long Grain White Rice

If you’re looking for a versatile rice option, long grain white rice is a great choice. It’s my personal favorite because it cooks up light and fluffy, with separate grains that don’t stick together. I love how it absorbs flavors and spices, making it perfect for a variety of dishes.

Whether I’m making a stir-fry, pilaf, or even a rice pudding, long grain white rice always delivers. Not to mention, it’s easy to find in most grocery stores and very affordable. Plus, it has a longer shelf life compared to other types of rice.

Brown Rice

Brown rice is a nutritious and fiber-rich alternative to white rice. I love incorporating brown rice into my meals because it not only tastes great, but it also provides numerous health benefits. Unlike white rice, which has had the bran and germ removed, brown rice retains these nutrient-rich components. This means that it is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are beneficial for my overall well-being.

Additionally, brown rice is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which helps keep my digestive system healthy and aids in weight management. I find that brown rice has a nutty flavor and a slightly chewy texture, which adds a delightful element to my dishes. Whether it’s in stir-fries, salads, or as a side dish, brown rice is a versatile grain that I enjoy incorporating into my diet.

Red Rice

Now let’s talk about red rice, which is another fantastic option for making arroz rojo.

I absolutely love the vibrant color and unique flavor it adds to this traditional dish. Red rice gets its hue from the natural pigments found in the bran layer of the grain. This type of rice is typically nuttier and chewier than white rice, giving the arroz rojo a delightful texture. It also has a slightly earthy taste that pairs perfectly with the savory and aromatic ingredients used in this dish.

Red rice is also a great source of fiber and essential nutrients, making it a healthier choice.

Overall, using red rice in your arroz rojo will elevate the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Black Rice

Black rice, also known as forbidden rice, adds a deep, rich flavor and striking visual appeal to any dish. I absolutely love using black rice in my cooking because it brings a unique and luxurious touch to my meals.

The dark, almost black color of the rice adds a beautiful contrast to the other ingredients, making the dish look incredibly appetizing. And let’s not forget about the taste! Black rice has a slightly nutty flavor that pairs well with both savory and sweet dishes. It also has a slightly chewy texture, which adds a delightful mouthfeel.

Whether I’m making a savory stir-fry or a sweet rice pudding, black rice always takes my dishes to the next level.