If you’re looking for a simple, flavorful dish that’s perfect as a side or even a light meal on its own, Arroz con Maíz (Rice with Corn) is a fantastic choice. This Latin American staple brings together two humble ingredients—rice and corn—and transforms them into a savory dish that pairs well with just about anything. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking to prepare a quick meal, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser.
What Is Arroz con Maíz?
Arroz con Maíz is a popular dish across Latin America, especially in Puerto Rican, Dominican, and Cuban cuisines. It’s a delicious mix of white rice and sweet corn, cooked with spices, herbs, and sometimes vegetables like bell peppers and onions. The result is a hearty and aromatic side dish that complements a variety of mains such as chicken, beef, or seafood.
Ingredients
To make a simple yet tasty Arroz con Maíz, you will need:
2 cups white rice (long-grain or medium-grain works best)
1 can of sweet corn kernels (15 oz, drained)
3 tablespoons of olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
1/2 green bell pepper, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 1/2 cups of chicken broth (or water)
1 tablespoon of tomato paste (optional for color and added depth)
1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon of paprika (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon of fresh cilantro (for garnish)
1 tablespoon of butter (optional for a richer flavor)
Instructions
Prepare the Rice Base:
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky during cooking.
Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onions, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. If you’re adding tomato paste for extra flavor and color, stir it in at this stage.
Add Rice and Corn:
Pour in the drained corn and rice, stirring for 2-3 minutes to lightly toast the rice and coat it with the flavors of the aromatics. This toasting step gives the rice a nutty flavor and helps keep the grains separate while cooking.
Add Broth and Spices:
Pour in the chicken broth or water and add the cumin, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Simmer:
Once the mixture starts boiling, lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and let it cook for about 18-20 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during this time, as the steam is essential for properly cooking the rice.
Fluff and Finish:
After the rice has cooked through and absorbed all the liquid, remove the pot from heat. Let it sit covered for 5 minutes to steam. Then, uncover and fluff the rice with a fork. For an extra touch of richness, stir in the butter.
Garnish and Serve:
Transfer the Arroz con Maíz to a serving dish and garnish with fresh cilantro. This rice dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even on its own with a drizzle of hot sauce for a little kick.
Use fresh corn if you prefer. If fresh corn is in season, cut the kernels from the cob and sauté them with the aromatics for a fresher taste.
Make it vegan by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skipping the butter.
Spice it up by adding a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of chili flakes when you sauté the garlic and onions.
Add protein by mixing in cooked shrimp, shredded chicken, or even black beans during the final few minutes of cooking.
Arroz con Maíz is a comforting, versatile dish that is both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. With its subtle sweetness from the corn and the savory depth from the spices and broth, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or making it the star of your meal, this recipe is a delicious way to enjoy classic Latin flavors.
Give it a try and experience the warmth of Arroz con Maíz!
One of the beautiful things about Arroz con Maíz is its adaptability. Depending on regional preferences and personal tastes, there are a number of ways to make this dish your own. Here are a few popular variations that you can try to switch things up:
A popular variation in Puerto Rican cuisine, this version adds pigeon peas (gandules) to the mix, giving the dish a more robust flavor and texture. Pigeon peas have an earthy taste and are a fantastic source of plant-based protein. To make this variation, simply add a can of pigeon peas (drained and rinsed) along with the corn before adding the broth.
Creamy Arroz con Maíz
If you prefer a creamier version, you can substitute part of the chicken broth with coconut milk or add a splash of heavy cream at the end of cooking. This gives the dish a rich, velvety texture and pairs well with grilled seafood like shrimp or salmon.
For a kid-friendly twist, add shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese after the rice has finished cooking. Stir until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated for a gooey, indulgent take on the traditional recipe. This variation is great as a standalone dish or served alongside baked
Arroz con Maíz y Chorizo
If you’re a fan of bold flavors, adding chorizo to your Arroz con Maíz can take the dish to another level. Sauté diced chorizo along with the onions and garlic, allowing the oils and spices from the sausage to infuse the rice with a smoky, savory taste. This variation is perfect for meat lovers and works well for a heartier meal.
This variation is ideal for those looking to pack more veggies into their meal. In addition to corn, you can add peas, diced carrots, or even zucchini for a more colorful and nutrient-dense version. The added vegetables not only enhance the flavor but also make this dish a great option for vegetarians.
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What to Serve with Arroz con Maíz
Arroz con Maíz is incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of dishes. Here are a few ideas to complement this delicious side:
Grilled Chicken or Pork: The savory and slightly sweet flavors of Arroz con Maíz go perfectly with grilled or roasted meats. Try marinating chicken or pork in a mix of citrus, garlic, and herbs for an extra burst of flavor.
Seafood: Arroz con Maíz is a great companion to fish or shrimp, especially when prepared with bold, tropical seasonings. Grilled shrimp with lime and garlic or baked fish with herbs will balance the sweetness of the corn nicely.
Tostones or Maduros: For a truly Latin-inspired meal, serve Arroz con Maíz alongside fried plantains—either tostones (fried green plantains) or maduros (sweet fried plantains).
Beans: A side of black beans or red beans seasoned with garlic, cumin, and oregano will add protein and additional heartiness to the meal. This combo is a Latin American classic.
Storing and Reheating Arroz con Maíz
Leftover Arroz con Maíz stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. When reheating, add a tablespoon of water or chicken broth to the rice to prevent it from drying out. You can reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
For longer storage, you can freeze Arroz con Maíz for up to 2 months. Just let the rice cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then follow the same reheating instructions.
Arroz con Maíz is more than just a side dish—it’s a comforting, flavorful, and highly adaptable recipe that brings the taste of Latin American cuisine into your kitchen. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight family dinner or preparing it as a side for a special occasion, this dish is bound to become a favorite. With endless variations and serving possibilities, you’ll never get bored of this classic recipe.
Next time you’re craving something hearty yet simple, whip up a batch of Arroz con Maíz. It’s a dish that feels like home, no matter where you’re from.
