What are the ingredients for Spanish rice?

The base ingredients for a classic Spanish rice recipe are: Long-grain white rice Cooking oil (vegetable, canola, or butter) Tomato sauce or diced tomatoes Chicken or vegetable broth Garlic and onions Seasonings like cumin, chili powder, and salt Optional additions include peas, bell peppers, corn, or cilantro. The simplicity of the ingredients is what makes it so easy to make yet rich in flavor.

What is the difference between Spanish rice and Mexican rice?

Though the terms are often used interchangeably, they refer to slightly different versions of the same dish. Spanish rice typically includes ingredients like saffron and has a deeper red color, while Mexican rice uses cumin and is more tomato-based with a lighter color. In the U.S., however, both terms usually refer to the tomato-infused rice dish we’ve described in this guide.

Can I turn cooked white rice into Spanish rice?

Yes, you can—but it won’t be quite the same as starting from raw. To convert already-cooked rice into a Spanish rice recipe variation: Sauté onions and garlic in oil Add tomato sauce and seasonings Stir in the cooked rice until it’s fully coated and heated through Simmer gently to absorb the flavors It’s a quick and tasty hack for a weeknight meal, especially when you have leftovers to use.

Why does Mexican restaurant rice taste better?

Restaurant rice often tastes richer because of: The use of bouillon or stock concentrate Generous sautéing of garlic and onions High-quality or homemade broth Proper toasting of rice before cooking These small details make a massive impact. Following the full steps of a traditional Spanish rice recipe at home will help you hit those same flavor notes.

Why does Spanish rice get mushy?

Common reasons your Spanish rice recipe turns out mushy include: Using too much liquid Not rinsing the rice beforehand Stirring too much during cooking Lifting the lid before it's done To fix it, ensure you rinse the rice, toast it well, and keep the lid on during simmering. Resting the rice after cooking is also essential for proper texture.

What are the two basic ingredients of all Spanish food?

In traditional Spanish (as in Spain’s) cuisine, the two most foundational ingredients are olive oil and garlic . However, in Mexican-style Spanish rice dishes, tomatoes and rice take the top spot. For the dish featured in this Spanish rice recipe , rice and tomatoes are absolutely the stars.

Spanish Rice Recipe: The Best 5-Step Method for Flavor

Name: Spanish Rice Recipe – Fluffy, Flavorful & Easy
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or butter); 1/2 cup tomato sauce; 1 1/2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth); 1/4 cup finely chopped onion; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; Salt, to taste; Optional: chopped cilantro, diced peppers, peas

Description

This authentic Spanish rice recipe is fluffy, packed with tomato flavor, and simple to prepare. A perfect side dish for tacos, grilled meats, or enchiladas—ready in just 35 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup long-grain white rice
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or butter)
1/2 cup tomato sauce
1 1/2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt, to taste
Optional: chopped cilantro, diced peppers, peas

Instructions

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
In a skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Toast the rice for 4–5 minutes until lightly golden.
Add the onion and garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
Stir in tomato sauce, broth, cumin, and salt. Bring to a boil.
Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 18–20 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.
Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
Fluff with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Notes

For spicier rice, add chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
To make it vegetarian, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Leftovers can be used in burritos, stuffed peppers, or rice bowls.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Mexican-American

Keywords: Spanish rice recipe, tomato rice, Mexican rice, fluffy Spanish rice, easy rice side dish, stovetop Spanish rice