Description
This classic Spanish Rice recipe is a simple and flavorful side dish that captures the traditional taste of homemade Spanish rice. Made with long-grain white rice sautéed in olive oil, simmered with tomato sauce, garlic, cumin, and chili powder, it’s an easy way to add vibrant color and zest to your meal, perfect for pairing with Mexican or Spanish dishes.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice and Seasonings
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Liquids
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté the Rice: Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add rice and cook, stirring often, for 5 to 6 minutes until the rice turns lightly golden. This step enhances the rice’s flavor and texture.
- Cook Aromatics: Add the finely chopped onion to the pan and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds more to release their fragrant aroma.
- Add Liquids and Spices: Pour in chicken broth and tomato sauce, then stir in ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to combine the flavors.
- Simmer the Rice: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the saucepan and simmer for 18 to 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Rest and Fluff: Remove the saucepan from heat and keep it covered for 5 minutes. Then fluff the rice with a fork and stir in chopped fresh cilantro if desired. Serve warm as a delicious side dish.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- For extra flavor, add diced bell peppers or jalapeños when sautéing the onions.
- Adjust chili powder to taste for spiciness.
- Leftover rice can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated.
- To make it gluten-free, ensure your broth and tomato sauce have no added gluten-containing ingredients.
