
This flavorful Mexican-inspired rice dish combines smoky bacon with spicy chorizo sausage for a deeply satisfying meal. Every grain of rice soaks up the rich flavors of the meat and fresh vegetables, creating a comforting yet exciting dish that brings warmth to any dinner table.
The vibrant colors and enticing aroma of this dish make it a stunning centerpiece for any meal. The way the chorizo subtly flavors each grain of rice creates a harmonious blend of Mexican and French culinary traditions.
Key Ingredients
- Long-Grain Rice: Choose a firm-cooking variety like basmati or American long-grain that maintains texture while absorbing flavors
- Spanish Chorizo: Select a firm, spicy variety for its rich seasoning and firm texture
- Bacon: Use fresh rather than smoked to let the chorizo flavors shine
- Green Bell Pepper: Pick firm, glossy peppers for the best crunch
- Tomato: Select ripe but firm tomatoes for balanced acidity
Preparation Steps
- 1. Initial Preparation (10-12 minutes)
- Rinse rice under cold water until clear. Drain thoroughly. Slice onions into thin half-moons and dice peppers into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- 2. Building Flavors (8-10 minutes)
- Heat oil and butter in a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven. Sweat onions until translucent with golden edges. Add bacon and cook until fat renders and edges crisp.
- 3. Rice Cooking (45-50 minutes)
- Add rice and stir to coat with fats until slightly translucent. Gradually add hot water, keeping rice barely covered throughout cooking.
- 4. Final Assembly (10-15 minutes)
- Near the end, add chorizo slices and diced tomatoes. Time this step carefully to preserve the chorizo's oils and prevent overcooking.

The playful discovery of chorizo pieces hidden throughout the rice adds an element of surprise that makes this dish especially appealing to all ages.
This Mexican-style rice transcends ordinary rice dishes by carefully balancing each ingredient in a harmonious blend of flavors. Its straightforward preparation and satisfying results make it perfect for both family meals and casual entertaining.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What kind of chorizo should I use?
- Go for a spicy chorizo for extra flavor, but a mild one works too if you want it less spicy.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
- Absolutely. It reheats wonderfully. Just add a splash of water while reheating to keep the rice moist.
- → How can I ensure perfectly cooked rice?
- Keep an eye on it as it cooks and add water gradually to keep it from drying out.
- → Is this dish freezer-friendly?
- Yes, you can freeze it. Thaw it in the fridge and reheat slowly with a little water added.
- → What other veggies could I include?
- You can toss in corn, peas, or any colorful peppers to mix things up.