Introduction
If you’re craving a flavorful side dish to complement your meals, homemade Spanish rice is a delicious and versatile option. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with savory flavors, making it a perfect accompaniment to a variety of main courses. Below, you’ll find a simple recipe to create this delightful rice dish at home.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup tomato sauce or diced tomatoes
2 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 1/2 cup peas or diced bell peppers for added vegetables
Prep Time
Approximately 10 minutes
Cook Time
About 25 minutes
Total Time
Approximately 35 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Directions
1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until the rice is lightly toasted, about 5 minutes.
6. Stir in the tomato sauce or diced tomatoes, chicken broth, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
7. If using peas or diced bell peppers, add them at this stage.
8. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
9. Cover the skillet and let the rice simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
10. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
11. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Spanish rice!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Rinse the Rice
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
Step 3: Sauté Onions
Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Add Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 5: Toast the Rice
Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until the rice is lightly toasted, about 5 minutes.
Step 6: Add Tomato and Spices
Stir in the tomato sauce or diced tomatoes, chicken broth, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 7: Incorporate Vegetables
If using peas or diced bell peppers, add them at this stage.
Step 8: Bring to a Boil
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Step 9: Simmer the Rice
Cover the skillet and let the rice simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Step 10: Let it Sit
Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
Step 11: Fluff Before Serving
Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
Notes
Storage
Leftover Spanish rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.
Customization
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Spanish rice pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, beans, or in burritos.
Cook techniques
Rinsing Rice
Rinsing rice removes excess starch, which helps prevent the rice from becoming sticky during cooking.
Sautéing
Sautéing onions and garlic in oil releases their flavors, creating a base for the dish.
Toasting Rice
Toasting the rice lightly enhances its nutty flavor and improves the overall taste of the dish.
Simmering
Simmering the rice with the liquid ensures even cooking and allows the flavors to meld together.
Fluffing Rice
Fluffing the rice with a fork after cooking helps separate the grains and makes it light and airy.
FAQ
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more liquid.
Can I add other vegetables to the Spanish rice?
Absolutely! Peas, bell peppers, corn, or even zucchini can be delicious additions.
How can I make the rice spicier?
You can add more chili powder, diced jalapeños, or other spicy seasonings to increase the heat.
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, vegetable broth is a great alternative for a vegetarian version.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
Conclusion
Homemade Spanish rice is a versatile and flavorful dish that can complement a variety of meals. The combination of rice, tomatoes, spices, and optional vegetables creates a delicious side that is easy to prepare. Enjoy it on its own or as a base for other dishes.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spanish Rice with Black Beans
Add a can of rinsed black beans to the rice during cooking for added protein and fiber.
Spanish Rice with Chicken
Add cooked, diced chicken breast to the rice just before covering it to let the flavors meld.
Vegetable Spanish Rice
Incorporate a variety of vegetables such as carrots, corn, and zucchini for a colorful and nutritious dish.
Spanish Rice Burrito Bowl
Use the Spanish rice as a base for a burrito bowl topped with salsa, guacamole, and grilled chicken.
Cheesy Spanish Rice
Stir in a cup of shredded cheese just after the rice is finished cooking for a creamy twist.
Spanish Rice Casserole
Combine cooked Spanish rice with ground beef, cheese, and spices in a baking dish and bake until bubbly for a hearty casserole.
