Delicious Spanish Rice: A Flavorful Fiesta in a Bowl

Spanish rice, with its vibrant colors and mouthwatering aroma, is like a fiesta in a bowl. The blend of spices, tomatoes, and perfectly cooked grains creates a dish that dances on your taste buds. Imagine the warmth and comfort it brings, making any meal feel special. For more inspiration, check out this lunch ideas recipe.

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This dish isn’t just food; it’s a symbol of family gatherings and lazy Sunday dinners filled with laughter. Whether you’re preparing it for Taco Tuesday or a cozy night in, the anticipation of that first bite is always thrilling.

I once made this Spanish rice for my friends during a potluck, and they devoured it like it was the last meal on Earth!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Long-Grain Rice: Use high-quality long-grain rice for fluffy texture; avoid short-grain varieties which can become sticky.

• Olive Oil: A drizzle of good olive oil enhances flavor while helping to sauté the ingredients perfectly.

• Onion: Dice a medium onion; its sweetness balances the other ingredients beautifully when sautéed.

• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds depth; use 2-3 cloves for an aromatic kick.

• Tomato Sauce: Opt for a good-quality tomato sauce; it’s the base that ties all flavors together.

• Vegetable Broth: Using broth instead of water infuses more flavor into the rice.

• Cumin and Paprika: These spices bring warmth and smokiness; feel free to experiment with smoked paprika for extra depth.

• Bell Peppers: Chop colorful bell peppers to add sweetness and crunch; they also brighten up the dish visually.

• Frozen Peas: Toss in some peas at the end for a pop of color and nutrition; they cook quickly!

• Salt and Pepper: Season to taste, adjusting according to your preference; fresh cracked pepper is always best.

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

How to Make Spanish Rice

Heat the Oil: Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. This will help sauté your veggies without sticking.

Sauté the Vegetables: Add diced onions and bell peppers to the pan. Cook until they turn soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. You want them golden but not burnt.

Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in minced garlic along with cumin and paprika. Sauté until aromatic—around 1 minute—making sure not to let the garlic burn.

Add Rice and Tomato Sauce: Stir in long-grain rice, mixing well with vegetables. Pour in tomato sauce, allowing everything to meld together beautifully.

Add Broth and Simmer: Pour vegetable broth into the mixture, season with salt and pepper, then bring it to a boil. Reduce heat, cover tightly, and let simmer for about 20 minutes.

Add Peas Before Serving: Once rice is tender, gently fold in frozen peas during the last few minutes of cooking. They’ll add color without losing their crunch.

Now you have glorious Spanish rice ready to impress family or friends! Serve warm alongside tacos or as part of a burrito bowl feast!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To master Spanish rice, sauté onions and garlic first, then add rice and broth for an even cook.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize with bell peppers, corn, or even chorizo for added flavor and texture.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Spanish rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water.

Cooking Spanish rice reminds me of family gatherings where everyone would eagerly await dinner. The smell wafting through the air always made my mouth water! For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.

FAQ

What type of rice is best for Spanish rice?

Long-grain white rice works best as it cooks evenly and stays fluffy.

Can I make Spanish rice in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time; just reheat when ready to serve.

How do I make my Spanish rice spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper during cooking for extra heat.

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Delicious Spanish Rice Recipe

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Experience the vibrant flavors of Spanish rice, a colorful dish that elevates any meal. With a blend of spices, fresh vegetables, and fluffy long-grain rice, this recipe brings warmth and comfort to your dining table. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, Spanish rice pairs beautifully with tacos or grilled meats. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy-to-make, aromatic dish!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 2–3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 cup bell peppers (chopped)
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
2. Sauté diced onions and bell peppers for about 5-7 minutes until soft.
3. Add minced garlic, cumin, and paprika; sauté for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the long-grain rice followed by the tomato sauce, mixing well.
5. Pour in vegetable broth and season with salt and pepper; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat, cover tightly, and simmer for about 20 minutes until rice is tender.
7. Fold in frozen peas during the last few minutes of cooking.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Spanish

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: For extra flavor, consider adding corn or diced chorizo. Rinse rice before cooking to prevent clumping. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to five days.