Spanish rice is more than just a side dish—it’s a culinary experience rooted in history, culture, and flavor. Known for its vibrant color, rich aroma, and irresistible taste, this rice dish has earned a place in households around the world. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or experimenting with global flavors, Spanish rice delivers a perfect balance of comfort and boldness.
In this guide, we’ll uncover what makes Spanish rice stand out, how to cook it perfectly every time, ways to prevent it from turning mushy, and tips to repurpose leftover white rice into something extraordinary. From traditional techniques to modern twists, this is the ultimate resource for Spanish rice lovers and curious home cooks alike.
Don’t miss our Soft Sourdough Bread guide for the perfect side to your hearty Spanish meals.
Table of Contents
What is Spanish Rice? A Flavorful Staple Explained
Origins and Cultural Significance of Spanish Rice
Though often associated with Mexican cuisine, Spanish rice has deep roots in the fusion of Spanish, Moorish, and Latin American cooking traditions. It’s commonly known in Spanish-speaking countries as “arroz rojo”, or red rice, due to its rich tomato base. The dish typically combines long-grain rice, onions, garlic, and tomatoes, simmered in broth and seasoned with cumin or chili powder.
This dish became popular across North and Central America thanks to its simple ingredients, affordability, and ability to complement nearly any protein—from grilled chicken to hearty stews. In traditional Spanish and Mexican homes, this rice is more than a recipe—it’s part of the family table, made in large batches and enjoyed together.
Beyond flavor, the dish symbolizes comfort, heritage, and resourcefulness. Whether cooked in clay pots or pressure cookers, Spanish rice has long served as a filling, flavorful staple in various cultures.
How Spanish Rice Differs from Other Rice Dishes
What sets Spanish rice apart from plain white or steamed rice isn’t just the vibrant red color—it’s the technique. Spanish rice is toasted in oil before being simmered, which adds a subtle nuttiness and prevents it from becoming sticky. The inclusion of tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes gives it both color and acidity, which balances the savory spices like garlic, cumin, and chili.
Unlike paella, which often uses saffron and seafood, Spanish rice is more accessible, versatile, and homestyle. While both dishes hail from Spain, their regional evolutions and ingredient profiles make them distinctly different. We’ll explore this in more detail in Part 2.
Here’s a comparison for better clarity:
Feature | Spanish Rice | Paella | Plain White Rice |
---|---|---|---|
Base Flavor | Tomato, garlic, broth | Saffron, seafood/meat | Neutral |
Cooking Method | Sauté then simmer | Open-pan simmer | Boiled or steamed |
Texture | Fluffy, separated | Moist, sometimes crispy bottom | Soft |
Spices Used | Cumin, chili powder | Saffron, paprika | Minimal |
If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Why does this rice taste so much better than plain white rice?” — it’s probably Spanish rice you’re thinking of.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Salmon Patties Recipe for a perfect protein pairing with your Spanish rice dinner.
Spanish Rice vs. Mexican Rice vs. Paella
Key Differences in Ingredients and Cooking Techniques
If you’ve ever wondered whether Spanish rice, Mexican rice, and paella are just different names for the same dish, you’re not alone. These rice-based dishes share similarities but are quite distinct in origin, ingredients, and preparation. Understanding these differences is key to mastering the perfect Spanish rice.
Spanish rice (also referred to as “Mexican rice” in the U.S.) is typically made with long-grain white rice sautéed in oil, then simmered with tomato sauce, garlic, onion, and broth. The result is a savory, fluffy rice with a reddish hue. The goal is to create grains that are separated and light—not sticky or overly soft.
Mexican rice and Spanish rice are often used interchangeably, especially in American recipes. However, in Mexico, it’s more common to hear the term “arroz rojo” or “arroz a la mexicana”. So while the dishes are virtually identical in ingredients and technique, the naming often depends on location.
Paella, on the other hand, is a traditional Spanish dish originating from Valencia. It features a completely different set of ingredients: saffron, bomba or short-grain rice, olive oil, and a medley of proteins like chicken, chorizo, shellfish, and mussels. The cooking process involves layering ingredients in a wide, shallow pan and simmering without stirring. A signature element is the “socarrat”, the crispy bottom layer of rice that forms when cooked correctly.
Here’s how they stack up:
Feature | Spanish Rice | Mexican Rice (U.S.) | Paella |
---|---|---|---|
Common Name | Arroz Rojo | Arroz a la Mexicana | Paella Valenciana |
Rice Type | Long-grain white | Long-grain white | Bomba (short-grain) |
Cooking Style | Sauté + Simmer | Sauté + Simmer | Simmered in wide pan |
Base Ingredients | Tomato, onion, garlic | Tomato, onion, garlic | Saffron, seafood, meat |
Flavor Profile | Savory & tangy | Savory & tangy | Rich, earthy, seafood |
Color | Red-orange | Red-orange | Golden-yellow |
As you can see, Spanish rice is simple, family-friendly, and customizable. Paella is festive and complex, usually reserved for special gatherings or traditional Spanish cuisine celebrations.
If you’re craving something versatile that can pair with meats, vegetables, or beans, Spanish rice is the go-to.
Don’t miss our Recent Recipes blog for more ideas on sides and entrees you can enjoy with this dish.
Essential Ingredients for Authentic Spanish Rice
Common Spices and Aromatics Used
The secret to unforgettable Spanish rice is all in the flavor base. While the ingredients are few, their preparation and quality make all the difference. Every great batch starts with a base of onion, garlic, and tomato, but it’s the spices that elevate it from plain to powerful.
Cumin is essential. This spice brings an earthy depth that defines the dish. It pairs beautifully with the acidity of tomatoes and the sweetness of sautéed onions.
Chili powder or paprika adds warmth, a hint of spice, and a smoky finish. If you like it hotter, a pinch of cayenne pepper won’t hurt.
Salt and black pepper balance everything, while optional additions like oregano, bay leaves, or even a dash of lime juice can bring more complexity.
Here’s a go-to flavor combo for 1 cup of uncooked rice:
Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
Onion (chopped) | ½ medium |
Tomato sauce | ½ cup |
Cumin | 1 tsp |
Chili powder | ½ tsp |
Salt | To taste |
Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
When cooked right, these ingredients not only flavor the rice but also coat each grain, resulting in that perfect, slightly toasted finish.
Rice Types and Broth Choices That Impact Flavor
Let’s talk rice. Choosing the right rice makes or breaks the dish.
Long-grain white rice is ideal for Spanish rice. It stays fluffy and separate when cooked, preventing the dreaded mush. Avoid using short-grain or sticky rice varieties, which hold more starch and tend to clump.
If you’re health-conscious, brown rice is an option—but be aware it takes longer to cook and absorbs flavor differently. Rinse your rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch and avoid a gummy texture.
Broth vs. Water: Always go for chicken or vegetable broth instead of plain water. The broth infuses every grain with savory goodness. Want a deeper flavor? Use low-sodium chicken broth and control the salt levels yourself.
Tomato base is another defining ingredient. You can use canned tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, or even fresh blended tomatoes. Each has its own texture and intensity—choose based on what flavor you want to highlight.
Pro Tip: Toast the rice in oil before adding any liquid. This step helps lock in the flavor and keeps your Spanish rice from turning soggy.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Soft Sourdough Bread recipe alongside your rice for an unexpected but tasty pairing.

How to Cook Spanish Rice – Step-by-Step Method
Prepping the Ingredients for the Best Results
Before you even turn on the stove, prep is key to nailing the perfect Spanish rice. While the dish is straightforward, organization upfront will save you from burning, sticking, or under-seasoning later on.
Here’s what to do:
- Rinse your rice
Use cold water to rinse your long-grain rice in a strainer. This removes excess starch, which is crucial for getting that light, fluffy texture. It also prevents clumping during cooking. - Chop your aromatics
Dice onions, mince garlic, and keep them ready. For 1 cup of rice, half an onion and two cloves of garlic usually do the trick. - Measure your liquids
The golden ratio: 1 cup of rice to 2 cups of liquid. Use low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable stock for rich flavor. Avoid plain water unless absolutely necessary—it dilutes the depth Spanish rice is known for. - Get your tomato base
Half a cup of canned tomato sauce is standard, but if using fresh tomatoes, blend them first and strain out excess water for a more concentrated flavor. - Spices on standby
Combine cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl so they’re ready to sprinkle in when it’s time.
Bonus Tip: Have fresh cilantro or lime wedges on hand for garnish—because yes, Spanish rice deserves that finishing touch.
Simmering Techniques to Avoid Mushy Texture
Alright, your mise en place is done. Let’s cook:
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions:
- Toast the rice
In a heavy-bottomed skillet or saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add rinsed rice and stir constantly for 4–5 minutes until it turns golden and smells nutty. This step creates the foundation for fluffy, non-mushy Spanish rice. - Sauté aromatics
Add the chopped onions and cook for 2 minutes until translucent. Then stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds—don’t let it burn. - Add tomato sauce & spices
Pour in the tomato sauce and your pre-measured spices. Stir to coat the rice evenly in the vibrant red mixture. - Pour in broth and bring to a boil
Once everything’s blended, add 2 cups of broth. Stir gently, then bring the mixture to a boil. - Cover and reduce to low
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover tightly with a lid. Let it simmer undisturbed for 18–20 minutes. - Rest and fluff
Turn off the heat and let the pot sit covered for 5–10 minutes. Then uncover and fluff with a fork.
Your Spanish rice should be tender but not soggy, rich in color, and perfectly seasoned.
Need something delicious to serve it with? Check out our Salmon Patties Guide for a protein-packed pairing.

Tips to Fix Mushy or Sticky Spanish Rice
Why It Happens and How to Prevent It
There’s nothing more frustrating than spending time in the kitchen only to end up with a soggy, sticky mess instead of fluffy Spanish rice. But don’t worry—mushy rice isn’t the end. It’s usually the result of a few simple, avoidable mistakes.
Let’s break it down.
1. Too Much Liquid
Using more broth or water than needed is the #1 culprit. Stick to the 1:2 rice-to-liquid ratio, and measure carefully. Spanish rice should absorb just enough liquid to cook through without becoming soup.
2. Low-Quality or Wrong Type of Rice
Some rice varieties, especially short-grain or sticky rice, release more starch during cooking. Always go with long-grain white rice for that classic texture. Jasmine or Basmati can work too, but expect a slightly different taste and mouthfeel.
3. Overstirring or Lifting the Lid
Spanish rice needs to steam undisturbed. Stirring while it’s simmering disrupts the cooking process, and lifting the lid lets out all that built-up steam. Let it sit in peace.
4. Skipping the Toasting Step
Toasting the rice in oil before adding liquid is critical. It seals the grains and prevents them from breaking down during simmering. Skipping this step often leads to mushy results.
Reviving Overcooked Spanish Rice with Simple Tricks
Let’s say it’s already too late and your Spanish rice is mushy—what now? Good news: you don’t have to throw it out.
Here are some easy fixes:
1. Spread and Dry
Spread the cooked rice on a large baking sheet and place it under a fan or in front of a window for 10–15 minutes. This lets moisture evaporate and can help bring back some of the fluffiness.
2. Pan-Fry the Rice
Heat a non-stick pan with a bit of oil and pan-fry the mushy rice in batches. This will give the outer layer a crispy texture and save the dish. Plus, you’ll get a toasty flavor reminiscent of traditional Mexican-style crispy rice bottoms.
3. Turn It Into Something Else
When all else fails, transform your Spanish rice into a new dish:
- Stuffed peppers: Mix the rice with ground beef or black beans and stuff into bell peppers.
- Rice fritters: Combine with cheese and egg, then pan-fry for savory fritters.
- Soup thickener: Add it to soups or stews as a starchy base.
Even the best home cooks mess up a pot of rice now and then. What matters is knowing how to fix it—and now, you do.
Discover great ideas like our Soft Sourdough Bread Recipe for a hearty addition to any rice-based meal.
Transforming Plain White Rice into Spanish Rice
Simple Hacks to Upgrade Cooked White Rice
Got plain white rice sitting in the fridge? Don’t toss it—revive it. You can easily turn day-old rice into flavorful, vibrant Spanish rice in under 15 minutes. The key is building flavor from the bottom up and using the right texture-saving techniques.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups of cooked white rice (cold is fine)
- 2 tablespoons of oil or butter
- 1/2 cup of tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup of chopped onion
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for spice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Splash of chicken broth or water (to loosen)
Step-by-Step Transformation:
- Sauté the aromatics
In a large non-stick skillet, heat oil over medium. Add onions and cook for 2 minutes, followed by garlic for 30 seconds. - Add tomato base and spices
Stir in the tomato sauce, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until it bubbles and thickens slightly. - Mix in the cooked rice
Break up any clumps of rice with your hands before adding to the pan. Stir to fully coat every grain with the flavorful sauce. - Moisten if needed
If the rice seems dry, add 2–3 tablespoons of broth or water. Stir and cook until everything is heated through. - Garnish and serve
Sprinkle with chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime for brightness.
Boom—your boring leftover rice just became a flavor-packed side dish worthy of any main meal.
Looking for a quick protein to serve with it? Don’t miss our Salmon Patties Recipe—a fast and tasty match for your freshly revived Spanish rice.
Quick Seasoning and Sauté Techniques
When making Spanish rice from pre-cooked rice, your focus should be on flavor infusion and texture preservation.
Here’s how to get both:
- High heat sautéing creates slightly crispy edges for depth.
- Avoid over-mixing, or you’ll turn your rice into mush.
- Use concentrated tomato paste instead of sauce for bolder color and flavor in less time.
This method is especially great when cooking for one or two people, or when you’re short on time but still want that signature Spanish rice flavor.
Pro Tip: Make a big batch of plain rice early in the week. Then repurpose it in 10 minutes using this method when you’re craving something bold and homey.
Best Variations of Spanish Rice You Should Try
Vegetarian, Spicy, and Protein-Packed Variants
Classic Spanish rice is already delicious, but why stop there? With just a few tweaks, you can customize this dish into a variety of flavorful versions that satisfy every craving and lifestyle—vegetarian, spicy, meaty, or plant-based.
Here are some crowd-pleasing variations to try at home:
1. Vegetarian Spanish Rice
Skip the meat and use vegetable broth for a plant-powered version. Add chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for texture and nutrition. You can also toss in black beans for extra protein.
Spice tip: Use smoked paprika or chipotle powder to add depth without needing meat.
2. Spicy Spanish Rice
Craving heat? Elevate your base with:
- Fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers
- A dash of hot sauce
- Cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes
This variation pairs perfectly with grilled meats or roasted vegetables. Just don’t forget to balance the spice with acidity—lime juice or tomatoes help round out the heat.
3. Chicken or Ground Beef Spanish Rice
For a heartier meal, add cooked shredded chicken, ground beef, or chorizo. These proteins cook well with the rice, soaking up every bit of flavor from the tomato and spices.
Cooking tip: Brown the meat first, set it aside, then follow your regular Spanish rice method. Add the meat back in just before simmering.
4. Cheesy Spanish Rice Bake
Turn leftovers into a new dish by placing Spanish rice in a baking dish, topping with shredded Monterey Jack, cheddar, or Mexican blend cheese, and baking until bubbly. This works well as a casserole or party side.
5. Vegan Spanish Rice
Use olive oil instead of butter and sub veggie broth. For added flavor and protein, include chickpeas, lentils, or crumbled tofu. Top with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for brightness.
Creative Ingredient Swaps for Dietary Needs
Whether you’re cooking for a gluten-free guest or aiming for a low-carb option, here are some creative swaps that keep the essence of Spanish rice intact:
Dietary Need | Ingredient Swap | Notes |
---|---|---|
Low-carb | Cauliflower rice | Reduce broth amount |
Gluten-free | Use certified GF broth | Check all spices for additives |
Dairy-free | Skip cheese toppings | Use oil instead of butter |
High-protein | Add quinoa or legumes | Adjust cook time for grains |
Vegan | Use veggie broth and no meat | Add umami with mushrooms |
With these variations, you’ll never get bored of Spanish rice. In fact, it may just become your most versatile go-to meal.
Looking for something different to pair it with? Don’t miss our Recent Recipe Blog for easy, comforting ideas that complement every rice variation.
What to Serve with Spanish Rice (Perfect Pairings)
Traditional Main Dishes That Go Well with Spanish Rice
Spanish rice is bold, savory, and rich in tomato and spice—making it the perfect side dish to countless main courses. Whether you’re cooking up a casual weeknight dinner or preparing a festive spread, here are the best traditional pairings to serve alongside your rice.
1. Tacos and Enchiladas
Mexican favorites like chicken enchiladas, beef tacos, or cheesy burritos pair beautifully with Spanish rice. The mild, savory flavor of the rice balances spicy or saucy mains, making it a reliable companion on taco nights.
2. Grilled Meats
Try carne asada, pollo asado, or even grilled shrimp over a bed of Spanish rice. The smokiness from the grill contrasts with the acidity of the tomatoes, creating a perfectly balanced bite.
3. Baked Chicken or Pork Chops
A serving of herbed baked chicken or spiced pork chops can elevate your Spanish rice from a side to a complete meal. Add a side salad or roasted veggies, and you’ve got a hearty, nutritious plate.
4. Stuffed Peppers
Use Spanish rice as the base for stuffing bell peppers with ground beef, beans, or cheese. It’s a creative and practical way to use up leftovers and get in those extra veggies.
Side Ideas for a Full Spanish-Themed Meal
You can round out your dish with classic sides that enhance the meal without overpowering your Spanish rice. Think color, crunch, and a little zest.
Side Dish | Why It Works |
---|---|
Refried beans | Creamy contrast and added protein |
Fresh guacamole | Cool, creamy, and citrusy for balance |
Corn or flour tortillas | Great for scooping or layering with rice |
Pico de gallo | Adds fresh acidity and crunch |
Mexican street corn (elote) | Sweet and savory, perfect with tomato-flavored rice |
Cabbage slaw | Refreshing crunch with spice |
Want something unexpected? Check out our Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread—yes, it actually complements Spanish rice and beans for a delicious Tex-Mex-meets-homemade twist.
Pro Tip: When serving Spanish rice as a main, top it with a fried egg, avocado slices, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese for a satisfying vegetarian option.
Whether you go traditional or fusion, Spanish rice holds its own as both a supporting dish and a flavorful foundation.

Storing, Reheating & Meal Prepping Spanish Rice
Best Containers and Storage Tips for Freshness
You’ve made a big batch of delicious Spanish rice—now what? The good news is, it stores and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep and next-day lunches.
Storage Best Practices:
- Cool it fast: Let the rice cool to room temperature before storing. Avoid sealing hot rice in containers—it creates steam and leads to sogginess or spoilage.
- Use airtight containers: Transfer your rice into a BPA-free, airtight container to keep out moisture and air.
- Refrigeration: Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Spanish rice freezes surprisingly well. Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers and label with the date. It’ll keep for up to 2 months.
Tip: Flatten freezer bags before sealing so they stack easily and thaw quicker.
Freezing, Thawing, and Reheating for Best Results
Freezing Tips:
- Spread freshly cooked Spanish rice on a baking sheet first and freeze for 20 minutes before transferring to bags—this prevents large clumps from forming.
- Remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn.
Thawing Spanish Rice:
- For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
- If in a rush, defrost in the microwave using a low setting or submerge the sealed bag in cold water.
Reheating Techniques:
- Microwave: Place rice in a bowl with a damp paper towel over the top. Microwave in 30-second bursts, fluffing in between.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or water to a skillet, toss in the rice, and stir until heated through.
- Oven (for large batches): Preheat to 300°F, place rice in a covered baking dish, and heat for 20 minutes.
These methods help preserve the original flavor and texture of your Spanish rice—no soggy messes here.
Meal Prepping with Spanish Rice
Spanish rice is meal-prep gold. It’s a ready-to-go base for bowls, burritos, and more. Here’s how to incorporate it into your weekly plan:
Day | Meal Prep Idea |
---|---|
Mon | Chicken burrito bowl with Spanish rice |
Tue | Stuffed peppers with beef and rice |
Wed | Vegan taco salad with Spanish rice base |
Thu | Side dish with baked salmon or chicken |
Fri | Rice-stuffed tortillas + salsa + cheese |
Looking for inspiration? Try it with our Salmon Patties Recipe for a quick, balanced lunch you’ll love all week.
By mastering these storage and reheating tips, you’ll always have flavorful Spanish rice ready to go—without sacrificing taste or texture.
FAQs About Spanish Rice
What makes Spanish rice different?
Spanish rice stands out because of its unique sauté-then-simmer cooking method and tomato-based flavor. Unlike plain white rice, it’s first toasted in oil, giving it a slightly nutty flavor and fluffy texture. The addition of tomato sauce, garlic, and spices like cumin and chili powder transforms it into a savory, aromatic side dish. This combination of preparation and seasoning is what makes Spanish rice different from other rice varieties.
What are the ingredients in Spanish rice?
Traditional Spanish rice is made from a short list of humble ingredients:
Long-grain white rice
Onion and garlic
Tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
Chicken or vegetable broth
Cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper
Oil (for sautéing)
Optional additions include corn, peas, bell peppers, or proteins like ground beef or shredded chicken. The key is in the layering of flavor from toasting and simmering.
What is Spanish rice called?
In many Spanish-speaking countries, Spanish rice is commonly referred to as “arroz rojo” (red rice) or “arroz a la mexicana” in Mexico. Despite being labeled “Spanish rice” in the U.S., it is more accurately a Mexican-style dish. The term “Spanish rice” is largely used in American cuisine to describe this tomato-infused rice variation.
Can I turn cooked white rice into Spanish rice?
Yes, absolutely! You can easily repurpose plain cooked white rice into Spanish rice by sautéing it in oil with onion and garlic, then stirring in tomato sauce and spices like cumin and chili powder. Add a splash of broth or water to rehydrate it and warm it through. It’s a quick fix for leftovers and a great way to cut down on food waste while enjoying rich, homemade flavor.
Why is my Spanish rice always mushy?
Mushy Spanish rice is often the result of too much liquid, stirring during cooking, or skipping the toasting step. The key to fluffy, separate grains is to toast the rice before adding any liquid, use the correct 1:2 rice-to-liquid ratio, and let it steam undisturbed. Always rinse your rice to remove extra starch, and avoid lifting the lid while it simmers.
Is paella rice the same as Spanish rice?
No, paella rice is not the same as Spanish rice. While both are from Spain, they use different types of rice and cooking methods. Paella is typically made with short-grain bomba rice, saffron, and a mix of meats or seafood in a wide, shallow pan. Spanish rice, on the other hand, uses long-grain rice and is simmered with tomato, broth, and spices. The flavor, texture, and presentation are very different.
Conclusion
Whether you’re cooking it from scratch or reviving leftovers, Spanish rice brings rich flavor, vibrant color, and homey comfort to any plate. With its tomato-forward base, fragrant spices, and fluffy texture, it’s a side dish that easily steals the spotlight.
From understanding its origins and differences from paella to exploring variations like vegan or spicy Spanish rice, this guide has covered everything you need to master this delicious staple. Plus, with our tips for fixing mushy rice, storage, and meal-prepping, you’re now fully equipped to enjoy Spanish rice any day of the week.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Recent Recipe Blog for more comfort food classics and creative meal ideas.
Print
Spanish Rice
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick, flavorful, and foolproof Spanish rice recipe made with tomato, garlic, broth, and spices. Perfect as a side dish or meal base!
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 tbsp oil (olive oil or vegetable oil)
- ½ medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
- 1¾ cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Chopped cilantro and lime for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cold water until water runs clear.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add oil and sauté rice for 4–5 minutes until golden.
- Add chopped onion and cook until soft (about 2 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Pour in tomato sauce and mix in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add broth, stir gently, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 18–20 minutes without lifting the lid.
- Remove from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork and garnish with cilantro and lime, if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños.
- Spanish rice can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Toasting the rice is key for fluffy texture—don’t skip that step!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Keywords: spanish rice, arroz rojo, tomato rice, Mexican rice, easy rice recipes, homemade Spanish rice