Spanish Rice

Why this Spanish Rice works

Spanish rice is a versatile dish that can accompany almost any meal. Its vibrant flavors and easy preparation make it a fantastic choice for busy weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. Plus, with just a few ingredients, you can create a hearty, satisfying side that pairs perfectly with your favorite proteins.

How to make Spanish Rice

Ingredients:

• 2 cups long-grain rice
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil

Directions:

1. In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and bell pepper, and sauté until softened.
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
3. Add the rice and toast it for a couple of minutes.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
6. Fluff with a fork and serve.

How to serve Spanish Rice

Spanish rice is delicious served alongside grilled chicken, beef tacos, or even as a bed for spicy shrimp. You can also top it with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for added flavor.

How to store Spanish Rice

To store leftover Spanish rice, let it cool completely first. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to four days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just thaw and reheat before serving.

Tips to make Spanish Rice

• Rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch. This helps prevent the rice from becoming sticky.
• For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or chili powder.
• Incorporate mixed vegetables for added nutrition and flavor.

Variation

You can easily turn this Spanish rice into a one-pan meal by adding cooked chicken or shrimp before covering the pot to simmer.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white?
   Yes, but the cooking time will be longer, about 40-45 minutes. Adjust the liquid accordingly.

2. Can I make Spanish rice in advance?
   Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead, just reheat before serving.

3. What can I substitute for chicken broth?
   Vegetable broth or water can be used, but the flavor will change slightly.

Spanish Rice

A flavorful and versatile side dish that pairs wonderfully with various proteins and can be made quickly with a few ingredients.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Side Dish

Cuisine Mexican, Spanish

Servings 4 servings

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups long-grain rice Rinse before cooking to remove excess starch.
• 4 cups chicken broth Can substitute with vegetable broth or water, flavor will vary.
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil For sautéing.

Instructions

 

Cooking Instructions

• In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and bell pepper, and sauté until softened.
• Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
• Add the rice and toast it for a couple of minutes.
• Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
• Fluff with a fork and serve.

Notes

Serve with grilled chicken, beef tacos, or spicy shrimp. Top with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to four days or frozen for longer storage.

Keyword Easy Recipes, Quick Dinner, Side Dish, Spanish Rice, Versatile Rice