The Easiest Spanish Rice Recipe Ever!
Are you craving delicious, flavorful Spanish rice but intimidated by complicated recipes? Fear not! This recipe is incredibly simple, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, yet delivers big on taste. Perfect for weeknights or when you need a quick side dish, this easy Spanish rice recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
What You'll Need:
This recipe utilizes pantry staples, making it incredibly convenient. You'll need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides flavor and helps sauté the aromatics.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice: This type of rice works best for Spanish rice, giving it that distinct texture.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that pungent, savory note.
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds acidity, juiciness, and a beautiful red hue.
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth: Provides the liquid for cooking the rice perfectly. You can substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- ½ teaspoon cumin: Adds warmth and a slightly earthy spice.
- ¼ teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and beautiful color.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning is key to enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these easy steps for perfectly cooked Spanish rice every time:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Rice and Spices
Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat it with the oil and aromatics. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the rice slightly. This step helps prevent the rice from becoming mushy. Now, stir in the cumin and paprika.
Step 3: Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked through.
Step 4: Fluff and Serve
Once cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the rice to steam and finish cooking. After 5 minutes, fluff the rice with a fork before serving. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Tips for the Best Spanish Rice:
- Don't rinse your rice: Unlike other rice dishes, don't rinse the rice before cooking. The starch helps create a creamy texture.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference: Feel free to experiment with other spices such as chili powder or oregano for a different flavor profile.
- Make it ahead: This rice tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping.
Serving Suggestions:
This versatile side dish pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses. Try serving it with:
- Chicken: Grilled, roasted, or pan-fried chicken breasts or thighs.
- Beef: Steak, shredded beef, or ground beef tacos.
- Seafood: Grilled fish or shrimp.
- Vegetables: Roasted vegetables or a simple salad.
Enjoy your incredibly easy and delicious Spanish rice! Let us know in the comments how yours turned out!
