Spanish Rice Recipe Made Easy: The Simple, Delicious Way to Cook Like Grandma
Spanish Rice is a savory, vibrant side dish that’s simple to make and packed with flavor. Made with long-grain white rice, simmered in a delicious tomato-based broth, and seasoned with garlic, onion, and spices, this dish is the perfect complement to any Mexican or Tex-Mex meal. Whether you’re making tacos, grilled chicken, or enchiladas, Spanish Rice is always a crowd-pleaser!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and quick: This recipe takes only 30 minutes, making it a great go-to for busy nights.
- Flavor-packed: The combination of garlic, onion, cumin, and chili powder makes this rice incredibly flavorful without being overwhelming.
- Versatile: Spanish Rice pairs perfectly with a variety of Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes like tacos, enchiladas, or grilled meats.
- Customizable: Add extra heat with jalapeños, or even make it with brown rice for a healthier option.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook the Rice:
- Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the rice and cook, stirring often, for 5-6 minutes until the rice turns lightly golden.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
- Add the chopped onion to the rice and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the Liquid:
- Pour in the chicken broth and tomato sauce. Add the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
4. Simmer the Rice:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Finish and Serve:
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the rice with a fork, and stir in the chopped cilantro if desired.
- Serve the rice warm as a side dish to your favorite meal.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 servings
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Whole-grain option: Use brown rice instead of white rice. Increase the liquid and cooking time to ensure the rice cooks properly.
- Spicy version: Add diced jalapeño or red pepper flakes when sautéing the onion for a spicy kick.
- Extra flavor: Add a squeeze of lime juice or a handful of roasted vegetables to make the dish even more flavorful.
Storage
- Storage: Leftover Spanish Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to restore its moisture.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes! If you’re using brown rice, just be sure to increase both the cooking time and the liquid. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook, about 40-45 minutes.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
You can add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions, or top the rice with hot sauce for an extra kick.
What do I serve Spanish Rice with?
Spanish Rice pairs wonderfully with tacos, grilled chicken, enchiladas, fajitas, or any dish that could use a flavorful rice side.
Conclusion
This Spanish Rice recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. It’s the perfect side dish for your Mexican or Tex-Mex meals and can be easily customized to suit your taste. Whether you make it mild or spicy, it’s a crowd-pleasing addition to any dinner table! Enjoy!
Spanish Rice Recipe Made Easy: The Simple, Delicious Way to Cook Like Grandma
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This Spanish Rice recipe is a savory, vibrant side dish made with long-grain white rice, simmered in a tomato-based broth and seasoned with garlic, onion, and spices. Quick, easy, and full of flavor, it pairs perfectly with Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes like tacos, enchiladas, or grilled meats. Customize it with jalapeños or brown rice for a unique twist. Ready in just 30 minutes, this is the perfect side for any meal!
Ingredients
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
1/2 cup tomato sauce
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
-
Cook the Rice:
-
Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
-
Add the rice and cook, stirring often, for 5-6 minutes until the rice turns lightly golden.
-
-
Sauté the Aromatics:
-
Add the chopped onion to the rice and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
-
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
-
-
Add the Liquid:
-
Pour in the chicken broth and tomato sauce. Add cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
-
-
Simmer the Rice:
-
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
-
-
Finish and Serve:
-
Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
-
Fluff with a fork and stir in chopped cilantro (optional). Serve warm.
-
Notes
For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes when sautéing the onion.
For a healthier option, use brown rice, but be sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.
Add lime juice or roasted vegetables for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
