Arroz Rojo: Mexican Red Rice

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp. vegetable oil
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1/3 cup finely chopped white onion
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 and 1/4 cups chicken broth
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 and 1/4 teaspoons coarse salt
• 1 serrano pepper (optional)
• 1 sprig of fresh cilantro

Preparation:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium-high heat. Add rice, onion, and garlic. Cook until the rice is opaque and fragrant, about 2 minutes.
2. Add the chicken broth, tomato paste, and salt. Mix well. Then add the chili and a sprig of cilantro. Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer until the rice is tender, about 30 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve immediately.