arroz rojo
/aroθ ɾoxo/from spelling rules
The English phrase 'mexican rice' is translated into Spanish as arroz rojo.
In many Spanish-speaking contexts, particularly in Mexico, arroz rojo is the standard way to refer to the specific dish known in English as 'mexican rice'.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase arroz rojo literally translates to 'red rice'.
Which one should you use?
While arroz rojo (red rice) is typically cooked with tomato and spices, arroz blanco refers to plain white rice.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Mexico, Mexican rice is commonly called arroz rojo.
How do you pronounce it?
/aroθ ɾoxo/
Did you know?
- The Spanish word arroz arrived in the language via Andalusian Arabic, which had borrowed it from Ancient Greek.
- To achieve the perfect color for arroz rojo, many traditional cooks fry the raw grains in oil until they are golden before adding the tomato puree.
- If you order 'rice' without specifying a color or type in a Mexican restaurant, you might receive arroz blanco instead of the traditional arroz rojo.
Examples in context
- El arroz rojo está muy picante.The mexican rice is very spicy.
- ¿Quieres un poco de arroz rojo?Do you want some mexican rice?
Example conversation
Elena and Mateo are eating dinner at home.
- ElenaMateo, ¿te gusta el arroz rojo?Mateo, do you like the mexican rice?
- MateoSí, Elena, es delicioso.Yes, Elena, it is delicious.
- ElenaPuedo prepararte más arroz rojo.I can prepare more mexican rice for you.
- MateoNo es necesario, gracias.It is not necessary, thank you.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries arroz, rojo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
