Description
Easy Spanish Rice is a simple, flavorful side dish made with long grain white rice, tomato sauce, onion, garlic, chicken broth, and warm spices for a fluffy, savory rice recipe that pairs perfectly with tacos, enchiladas, grilled chicken, and weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup long grain white rice
1/2 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces tomato sauce
2 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup frozen peas or corn, optional
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped, optional
Instructions
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in the rice and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often, until the grains look lightly toasted.
3. Add the garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth, then stir well to combine. Add the peas or corn if using.
5. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, reduce the heat to low, and cover the pan tightly.
6. Cook for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
7. Remove from the heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 5 to 10 minutes.
8. Fluff with a fork, sprinkle with fresh cilantro if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
Toasting the rice before adding liquid helps the grains stay fluffy and adds more flavor.
Keep the lid on while the rice simmers so the steam can cook the rice evenly.
Letting the rice rest after cooking makes the final texture lighter and less sticky.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 185
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg