Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Spanish Rice, also known as Mexican Rice, is a flavorful side dish made with long grain rice, tomatoes, and spices. It pairs perfectly with tacos, enchiladas, or grilled meats. The fluffy texture and rich, savory taste make it a household staple in Latin cuisine, bringing warmth and comfort to any meal.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

long grain white ricetomatoes (fresh or canned)oniongarlicchicken broth (or vegetable broth)tomato saucetomato pastevegetable oilground cuminchili powder (optional)saltpepperfresh cilantro (optional for garnish)

directions

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the rice and cook, stirring frequently, until golden brown and toasted.

Add the diced onions and cook until they are soft and translucent.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.

Add tomato sauce, tomato paste, and chopped tomatoes. Stir to combine.

Pour in the chicken broth and stir in cumin, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and liquid is absorbed.

Turn off the heat and let the rice sit covered for 5 minutes.

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

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4-6 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 25 minutesTotal time: 35 minutes

Variations

Use brown rice for a healthier, whole grain option (adjust cooking time).

Add peas, corn, or diced bell peppers for added texture and nutrition.

Make it spicy by adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.

Substitute broth with water and bouillon cubes if preferred.

Top with shredded cheese for a creamy finish.

storage/reheating

Store Spanish Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to restore moisture.You can freeze Spanish Rice for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Is Spanish Rice the same as Mexican Rice?

Yes, they are often used interchangeably and refer to the same dish.

Can I use instant rice?

It’s best to use long grain rice for texture, but you can use instant rice by adjusting cooking times and liquids.

Why is my rice mushy?

Too much liquid or overcooking can cause mushiness. Be sure to measure accurately and keep the heat low while simmering.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Do I need to rinse the rice?

Rinsing helps remove excess starch, making the rice less sticky, but it’s optional for this recipe.

Can I use a rice cooker?

Yes, after toasting the rice and combining all ingredients, you can transfer them to a rice cooker to finish cooking.

Can I make it ahead?

Absolutely, Spanish Rice reheats well and can be made a day in advance.

What type of tomatoes are best?

Roma or canned diced tomatoes work well for flavor and consistency.

Should I cover the rice while cooking?

Yes, cover the skillet to trap steam and cook the rice evenly.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure to use a larger pot or skillet and adjust cooking time slightly.

Conclusion

Spanish Rice is a versatile and comforting dish that enhances any meal with its bold flavors and fluffy texture. Whether served as a side or the star of the plate, it’s a must-have in your recipe collection. Easy to customize and perfect for meal prep, this dish is sure to become a regular favorite at your table.