Easy Spanish Rice Recipe: A Flavorful Side Dish in Minutes
Are you looking for a quick and delicious side dish to complement your next meal? Look no further than this easy Spanish rice recipe! This vibrant and flavorful rice dish is surprisingly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for even the busiest cooks. You'll need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides a healthy fat base and adds a subtle flavor.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped: Contributes a fresh, crisp element and vibrant color.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that signature Spanish flavor punch.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice: The base of our dish; long-grain rice cooks up nicely and separates well.
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds juicy texture and acidity.
- 1 (10 ounce) can condensed tomato soup: Provides a rich tomato base and helps the rice cook evenly.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and enhances the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Provides a subtle warmth. Adjust to your spice preference!
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Adds an earthy, warm flavor that complements the other spices.
- 1/4 teaspoon oregano: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these simple steps to create a restaurant-quality Spanish rice dish at home:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and green bell pepper and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Rice and Spices
Stir in the rice, chili powder, cumin, and oregano. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the rice slightly and enhance its flavor.
Step 3: Incorporate the Remaining Ingredients
Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), condensed tomato soup, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 4: Simmer and Cook
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Step 5: Fluff and Serve
Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Add protein: Ground beef or chicken can be browned and added to the skillet along with the onions and peppers for a heartier dish.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the chicken broth and use vegetable broth instead.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like corn, carrots, or peas.
- Use different rice: While long-grain white rice works best, you can experiment with other types of rice, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
This easy Spanish rice recipe is a versatile and flavorful side dish that can be customized to your liking. Enjoy! Remember to share your culinary creations with us! Use #EasySpanishRice on social media to showcase your delicious results.
