Best Easy Arroz Aguado Jalisciense Recipe

Jalisco's soupy rice with pork or chicken, vegetables, and a thin tomato broth. This protein-rich, comforting family dish is a warm, satisfying one-pot meal perfect for rainy days.

Cook 60 min Difficulty NORMAL 310 kcal
#comfort food #protein-rich #Mexican soup #family dinner
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • long grain white rice 1 cup
  • bone-in pork shoulder or chicken thighs 1.5 lbs
  • zucchini 2 pieces
  • carrots 2 pieces
  • russet potato 1 piece
  • white onion 1 piece
  • fresh tomato 3 pieces
  • garlic clove 2 cloves
  • fresh cilantro 0.25 cup
  • water 8 cups
Seasonings/Sauce
  • kosher salt 2 tsp
  • black pepper 0.5 tsp
  • vegetable oil 2 tbsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 46 g 59%
Protein 18 g 23%
Fat 6 g 18%
Serving size 350g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Rinse the rice under cold running water until the water runs clear and drain well.

  2. 2

    In a large pot over medium-high heat, add vegetable oil and brown the pork shoulder or chicken thighs on all sides for about 4–5 minutes. Remove and set aside.

  3. 3

    Add chopped onion and garlic to the pot, sauté for 2–3 minutes until translucent, then add chopped tomatoes and cook until they break down (about 5 minutes), stirring occasionally.

  4. 4

    Return the meat to the pot, add 8 cups water, salt, and black pepper; bring to a boil, skimming off any foam that rises. Reduce to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 25–30 minutes.

  5. 5

    Stir in the rinsed rice, diced carrots, zucchini, and potato. Simmer uncovered over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally so rice doesn't stick, until vegetables are tender and rice is slightly al dente, about 18–22 minutes.

  6. 6

    Adjust salt if needed. Remove the meat, shred or cut into pieces, then return to the soup with chopped cilantro. Simmer 5 minutes more. Serve hot and enjoy!

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The combination of bone-in pork shoulder or chicken thighs with long grain white rice is what truly defines Arroz Aguado Jalisciense. The rice absorbs savory flavors from the meat as it simmers, while the fresh tomatoes and vegetables create a delicate, aromatic broth that is characteristic of this comforting Jalisco dish.
Q. What heat control helps the rice stay soupy but not mushy?
It's important to add the rinsed rice after the broth and meat have simmered and then keep the heat at medium-low for a gentle simmer. This ensures the rice cooks evenly and stays tender, absorbing broth without breaking down or turning gummy. Stirring occasionally also helps prevent sticking.
Q. How do I make sure the meat stays juicy and the vegetables are perfectly cooked?
By first browning the meat and then gently simmering it covered before adding vegetables and rice, you allow the flavors to develop while keeping the meat moist. Adding vegetables and rice at a later stage prevents them from overcooking and ensures a tender bite in every spoonful.
Q. How many calories and grams of protein are in each serving?
Each serving contains approximately 310 kcal, with 18 grams of protein. The protein-to-carb ratio makes this a protein-rich meal option, offering balanced nutrition with ample vegetables and moderate fat.
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