Irresistible Spanish Rice Recipe for Your Fiesta Nights

Name: Spanish Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Spanish
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain rice (jasmine or basmati); 1 cup tomato sauce; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro (optional), for garnish

Recipe By:

Ruth

Posted:

May 16, 2025

Updated:

May 16, 2025

0 Shares

Spanish rice is like that friend who always brings the fiesta to your dinner table. Imagine fluffy grains dancing in a vibrant sea of tomatoes, peppers, and spices, enticing you with an aroma that says, “Come eat me!” This dish isn’t just about filling your belly; it’s about creating memories around the table, whether it’s Taco Tuesday or a casual family gathering. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.

I still remember the first time I made Spanish rice. I was trying to impress a date and thought, “What could go wrong?” Little did I know that my kitchen would turn into a culinary battleground! The rice turned out delicious, and we laughed about my kitchen chaos over our meal. Now, every time I whip up this dish, it brings back that delightful memory, reminding me that cooking should be fun!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Spanish rice recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
The flavor profile combines tangy tomatoes with aromatic spices for an irresistible taste
Visually stunning with its colorful ingredients, it’s sure to impress anyone at your table
Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with almost any protein or serve as a stand-alone dish!

I once made this for a family reunion, and everyone kept going back for seconds (and thirds). My cousin even asked if he could take some home—now that’s a compliment!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Long-Grain Rice: Opt for jasmine or basmati for a lovely texture and subtle fragrance.
Tomato Sauce: Use quality sauce for a rich flavor base; homemade is even better!
Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
Bell Peppers: Choose vibrant colors for visual appeal and flavor; they make everything pop!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the taste with its aromatic essence.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for controlling saltiness while enhancing flavor.
Cumin and Paprika: These spices bring warmth and character; feel free to adjust their amounts based on your taste.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors.
Cilantro (optional): Chopped fresh cilantro adds brightness and freshness when serving.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Spanish Rice

How to Make Spanish Rice

Prep Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients so you’re not running around like a headless chicken later. Chop the onions, bell peppers, and mince the garlic.

Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, toss in your chopped onions and bell peppers. Sauté until soft and fragrant—about 5 minutes—creating a delightful aroma.

Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic until fragrant—around 30 seconds. You want it aromatic but don’t let it burn; burnt garlic is like bad news on toast!

Add Rice: Pour in the long-grain rice and stir well to coat it with those tasty veggies. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until lightly toasted; this step enhances the nutty flavor.

Add Tomato Sauce & Spices: Mix in tomato sauce along with cumin and paprika. Stir until everything is well combined; it’s starting to look like party food now!

Add Broth: Pour chicken broth into the skillet along with salt and pepper. Bring everything to a boil; then reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for about 20 minutes until rice absorbs all liquid.

Enjoy your cooking journey as you transform simple ingredients into something truly delightful! Remember that patience is key here.

Once cooked, fluff your Spanish rice with a fork before serving it hot alongside tacos or grilled meats. Top with fresh cilantro if desired for an extra burst of flavor!

Now sit back and enjoy every bite of this flavorful Spanish rice—it’s sure to become a family favorite!

You Must Know

Spanish rice is not just a side; it can be the star of your meal
The blend of spices and textures creates an irresistible dish that complements many entrees
Plus, the vibrant colors will brighten any dinner table, making it visually appealing!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic in oil, then add your rice and toast it slightly before adding broth. This technique builds flavor and ensures even cooking.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out bell peppers for peas or add a splash of lime juice for brightness. Customize this dish to fit your taste buds!

Storing & Reheating

Store Spanish rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove with a little water to revive its texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To enhance flavor, use homemade broth instead of water for cooking the rice
Don’t skip the toasting step; it adds depth to your dish
Always let the rice rest covered after cooking for perfect fluffiness

There was that one time I made Spanish rice for a potluck, and everyone kept asking for my “secret recipe.” Little did they know, I just added extra garlic and a sprinkle of love!

FAQ

How can I make Spanish rice spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper while cooking.

Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but adjust cooking time since brown rice takes longer than white rice.

What should I serve with Spanish rice?

It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, tacos, or black beans for a complete meal.

0 Shares