My Spanish Rice

Elevate your dinner table with "My Spanish Rice," a vibrant and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for weeknight meals or festive gatherings. This easy-to-make recipe features tender, perfectly cooked long-grain white rice infused with a rich blend of tomato sauce, smoky paprika, cumin, and a hint of chili powder for a warm, spiced kick. Sautéed onions and garlic bring depth, while optional frozen peas add a pop of color and texture. Simmered to perfection in flavorful chicken or vegetable broth, this one-pan wonder is quick to prepare, taking just 35 minutes from start to finish. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a bright, herbaceous finish, and serve alongside tacos, grilled chicken, or your favorite vegetarian main. Whether you're crafting a Spanish-inspired feast or simply looking for a crowd-pleasing side dish, this recipe is a must-try!

Nutriscore Rating: 66/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups long-grain white rice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2.5 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian version)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 0.5 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
• 0.5 cup frozen peas (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.

Step 2

In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, warm the olive oil.

Step 3

Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent.

Step 4

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 5

Add the rice to the skillet and toast it for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until it becomes slightly golden and aromatic.

Step 6

Stir in the tomato sauce, chicken (or vegetable) broth, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.

Step 7

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid.

Step 8

Simmer the rice for 18-20 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender. Do not lift the lid or stir during this time.

Step 9

If using frozen peas, add them during the last 5 minutes of cooking, gently folding them into the rice.

Step 10

Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 11

Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, if desired.

Step 12

Serve immediately as a side dish or as a base for your favorite protein or vegetables.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1386.4 grams (1386.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	901

Total Fat 35.40g	45%
Saturated Fat 5.50g	28%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 4862mg	211%
Total Carbohydrate 123.40g	45%
Dietary Fiber 11.10g	40%
Total Sugars 15.60g
Protein 20.50g	41%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 154mg	12%
Iron 8mg	47%
Potassium 810mg	17%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 35.6%

Protein: 9.2%

Carbs: 55.2%