Spanish Rice

Spanish rice, also known as Mexican rice, is a flavorful dish that perfectly complements a variety of meals. It’s a staple in many households, thanks to its aromatic spices and colorful appearance. This recipe will guide you through creating a delicious batch that is sure to impress your family and friends. With its rich flavors and beautiful presentation, Spanish rice is not just a side dish; it’s a star on your table.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving contains approximately 220 calories, 4g protein, 2g fat, 45g carbohydrates, and 2g fiber. This nutritional information is based on a single serving.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add chopped onion and bell pepper, sauté until softened.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the rinsed rice to the skillet, stirring to coat with oil.
6. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil.
7. Add the diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
8. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is tender.
9. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
10. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Alternative Ingredients

If you’re looking to switch things up, you can use quinoa instead of rice for a healthier option. Additionally, feel free to add other vegetables like corn or peas for extra flavor and nutrition.

Serving and Pairings

Spanish rice pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, tacos, or as a filling for burritos. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover Spanish rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave until heated through, or warm it in a skillet with a splash of broth to prevent drying out. Spanish rice can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Cooking Mistakes

• Not rinsing the rice can lead to a gummy texture.
• Using too much liquid will make the rice mushy.
• Overcooking can result in burnt rice at the bottom.
• Not letting the rice sit after cooking can make it clump together.
• Skipping the sauté step misses out on flavor development.

Helpful Tips

• Use a good quality broth for enhanced flavor.
• Experiment with spices like paprika or oregano for different tastes.
• For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or hot sauce.
• Let the rice rest before serving to improve the texture.

FAQs

Can I make Spanish rice in a rice cooker?

Yes, you can make Spanish rice in a rice cooker. Simply follow the same steps for sautéing the vegetables, then transfer everything to the rice cooker with the broth and let it cook according to the rice cooker’s instructions.

What can I add for protein?

You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or beans to the Spanish rice for added protein. Simply mix them in during the last few minutes of cooking to warm through.

Is Spanish rice gluten-free?

Yes, Spanish rice is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth and ensure your ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Just be aware that brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more liquid compared to white rice.

How can I spice it up?

To add more heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking. You can also top the finished dish with hot sauce.

Conclusion

Spanish rice is a versatile and flavorful dish that can elevate any meal. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors that make this rice a beloved classic in many cuisines.

Spanish Rice

A vibrant and flavorful dish with aromatic spices, perfect as a side or main course.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: Spanish

Keyword: spanish rice, mexican rice, side dish, easy recipe, flavorful meals

Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 220kcal

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 medium onion chopped
• 1 bell pepper diced
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

• Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
• Add chopped onion and bell pepper, sauté until softened.
• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
• Add the rinsed rice to the skillet, stirring to coat with oil.
• Pour in the broth and bring to a boil.
• Add the diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
• Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is tender.
• Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
• Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 220kcal | Carbohydrates: 45g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 2g | Fiber: 2g