The Best Authentic Spanish Rice

Transform your meals with the rich, savory flavors of *The Best Authentic Spanish Rice*! This irresistible recipe features perfectly toasted long-grain white rice simmered to tender perfection in a vibrant blend of chicken broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes, enhanced by aromatic spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika. A touch of sautéed onion and garlic adds depth to every bite, while a golden-brown texture sets this dish apart. Ready in just 40 minutes, it's the ideal side dish for tacos, enchiladas, or any Spanish-inspired feast. Customize it with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option, and finish with fresh cilantro for a burst of brightness. Simple, flavorful, and comforting—this Spanish rice is sure to become your go-to!

Nutriscore Rating: 66/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 cups long-grain white rice
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the rice thoroughly in cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps prevent the rice from becoming sticky.

Step 2

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or saucepan with a tightly fitting lid over medium heat.

Step 3

Once the oil is hot, add the rinsed rice and sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring constantly. Cook until the rice is golden brown and has a nutty aroma.

Step 4

Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Step 5

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes, stirring to combine thoroughly.

Step 6

Stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Make sure all the spices are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 7

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid.

Step 8

Simmer the rice for 18-20 minutes, or until the liquid has been fully absorbed and the rice is tender. Avoid lifting the lid or stirring during this time, as it can disrupt the cooking process.

Step 9

After 20 minutes, remove the skillet from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This helps the rice achieve the perfect texture.

Step 10

Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.

Step 11

Serve warm as a side dish or as a base for your favorite Mexican or Spanish-inspired meals.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	2010 grams (2010.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1003

Total Fat 34.80g	45%
Saturated Fat 5.20g	26%
Polyunsaturated Fat 16.80g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 6446mg	280%
Total Carbohydrate 150.70g	55%
Dietary Fiber 12.50g	45%
Total Sugars 18.40g
Protein 23.10g	46%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 248mg	19%
Iron 10mg	56%
Potassium 1053mg	22%

*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: 31.1%

Protein: 9.2%

Carbs: 59.8%