Are you craving a delicious, savory, and easy-to-make side dish that pairs perfectly with your favorite meals? Look no further! This Spanish rice recipe is a must-try. With its rich flavors, vibrant colors, and comforting textures, it’s no wonder that Spanish rice has become a staple in kitchens all over the world. Whether you’re serving it as a side or using it as a base for other dishes, this recipe is sure to impress your taste buds.
Originating from the heart of Spain, this dish has traveled far and wide, making its mark in various cuisines, especially in Mexican and Tex-Mex cooking. This Spanish rice recipe will add a pop of flavor to any meal, and it’s easier than you think to prepare!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Simple – With minimal ingredients and an easy-to-follow method, this Spanish rice recipe comes together in no time.
- Versatile – It pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, from tacos to grilled meats, making it perfect for any meal.
- Healthy – Packed with vegetables, this recipe offers a nutritious, flavorful side without compromising on taste.
- Customizable – Whether you prefer it mild or spicy, you can easily adjust the heat level to suit your taste.
- Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike will love the delicious flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser at dinner time.
Ingredients Needed
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
Alternative Ingredients:
- For a dairy-free option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Want a gluten-free version? This recipe is naturally gluten-free!
- For extra flavor, add a splash of lime juice or a handful of fresh cilantro at the end.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the rice – In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the rice and cook, stirring frequently, until the rice turns golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
- Sauté the vegetables – Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for another 2 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
- Add the tomatoes – Stir in the diced tomato, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
- Simmer the rice – Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Add peas (optional) – If you’re using peas, stir them into the rice about 5 minutes before the rice is done cooking. This adds a pop of color and flavor.
- Fluff and serve – Remove from heat, fluff the rice with a fork, and serve hot as a side dish.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor: Add a chopped bell pepper or some fresh chili peppers while sautéing the onions and garlic.
- Make it spicy: If you prefer heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mix.
- Sweet twist: Add a handful of raisins or chopped dried fruit for a unique, sweet variation.
How to Store & Reheat
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave the rice or warm it up in a skillet with a splash of broth to restore its moisture.
Similar Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this Spanish rice recipe, here are three more delicious rice-based dishes that you won’t want to miss! These recipes are perfect for any occasion and feature a variety of flavors that will keep you coming back for more:
- Rice Krispie Treats – A classic, sweet treat made with crispy rice cereal and melted marshmallows. It’s an easy, fun dessert that both kids and adults will love. Check out the Rice Krispie Treats Recipe here!
- Smothered Chicken and Rice – A hearty and comforting dish, featuring tender chicken smothered in a flavorful gravy and served over a bed of fluffy rice. Get the Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe here!
- Pineapple Chicken and Rice – A delightful fusion of savory chicken and the sweet tang of pineapple, served on a bed of rice. It’s a tropical twist on a classic meal. Discover the Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe here!
These dishes are sure to add variety to your meals and satisfy your cravings for delicious, comforting rice-based recipes!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I make this recipe with brown rice? Yes! You can substitute brown rice for white rice. Just keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook—about 40-45 minutes—so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q2: Is this Spanish rice recipe vegetarian? Yes, it’s easy to make this dish vegetarian by swapping chicken broth for vegetable broth, and you can skip the peas if you prefer.
Q3: Can I make Spanish rice in advance? Absolutely! Spanish rice holds up well in the fridge for a few days, making it a great make-ahead dish for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Now that you know how to make this easy and flavorful Spanish rice recipe, it’s time to get cooking! This dish will become a regular in your kitchen with its simplicity and versatility. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and variations with us in the comments, and feel free to follow for more delicious recipes. Happy cooking!
Spanish Rice Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion diced
- 1 garlic clove minced
- 1 medium tomato diced
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup frozen peas optional
Optional Variations:
- Use vegetable broth for a vegan option.
- Add a chopped bell pepper for extra flavor.
Instructions
- Cook the Rice: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the rice and cook, stirring frequently, until the rice turns golden brown (about 3-4 minutes).
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for another 2 minutes until the onion softens.
- Add the Tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomato and cook for 2 more minutes until the tomatoes begin to break down.
- Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Add Peas (Optional): If using peas, stir them in 5 minutes before the rice is done cooking. This adds color and nutrition.
- Fluff and Serve: Remove from heat and fluff the rice with a fork. Serve hot as a side dish with your favorite meals.