Best Spanish Rice Recipe: How to Make the Perfect Mexican Side Dish

Best Spanish Rice, known for its savoury tomato flavour and subtle spice, is a classic side dish that pairs beautifully with many main courses. It’s beloved in Mexican and Spanish cuisines and adds vibrant colour and texture to any plate. This guide explores everything you need to make the best Spanish Rice, including essential tips, variations, and a step-by-step recipe.

Why Best Spanish Rice is a Perfect Side Dish

Spanish Rice brings a flavorful balance to any meal, adding warmth, a hint of spice, and a hearty texture. Made with simple ingredients like Rice, tomatoes, onions, and herbs, it’s versatile and easy to prepare. The slightly tangy and savory flavors complement a variety of dishes, making Spanish Rice a staple in many kitchens.

What You’ll Need to Make the Best Spanish Rice

Spanish Rice is traditionally made with long-grain white Rice, which holds its shape well and absorbs flavors without becoming too soft. You’ll also need ingredients like tomatoes, onions, garlic, and broth, which give the dish a distinctive taste and texture. Let’s break down the essential ingredients:

Key Ingredients

• Long-grain white Rice – Holds up nicely without getting mushy.
• Onion and garlic – Add depth and aroma to the dish.
• Tomato sauce or diced tomatoes – Provide the Rice with its vibrant colour and tangy flavour.
• Chicken or vegetable broth – Adds richness; you can also use water if preferred.
• Spices (cumin, chilli powder) – Enhances the Rice with warm, earthy notes.

Optional Additions

For extra flavor and variety, you can include:

• Bell peppers – Adds sweetness and crunch.
• Peas or carrots – Boosts color and nutrition.
• Fresh cilantro – Adds a pop of freshness.

How to Make the Best Spanish Rice: Step-by-Step Recipe

Now that we know what goes into this delicious dish let’s dive into the recipe. This Spanish Rice recipe is perfect for tacos, enchiladas, grilled chicken, and more.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white Rice
• Two tablespoons of olive oil
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• One clove of garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce (or 1/2 cup diced tomatoes with juice)
• 1 3/4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• One teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chilli powder (optional for spice)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat the Oil
   In a spacious skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Rice and cook, stirring constantly, until the Rice becomes golden brown. This step helps give the Rice a slightly nutty flavor and prevents it from becoming mushy.
2. Add Onions and Garlic
   Incorporate the diced onion into the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes tender. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it becomes aromatic.
3. Incorporate Tomato Sauce and Broth
   Mix the tomato sauce (or diced tomatoes with juice) and chicken broth well. This combination of tomato and broth will give the Rice it’s signature red colour and rich flavor.
4. Add Seasonings
   Sprinkle in the cumin, chilli powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed.
5. Simmer
   Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then lower it to a simmer. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the Rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
6. Fluff and Serve
   Remove the skillet from heat, let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff the Rice with a fork. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and serve warm.

Tips for Making the Best Spanish Rice

Creating the perfect Spanish Rice takes just a few essential techniques. Here are some tips to ensure your Rice comes out flavorful, fluffy, and just the right texture.

1. Toast the Rice

Toasting the Rice before adding liquids gives it a nutty flavor and keeps it from becoming overly soft. This step is crucial for attaining the optimal texture.

2. Use Flavorful Broth

Using chicken or vegetable broth instead of water makes the Rice richer and more flavorful. If you prefer a vegetarian option, vegetable broth works wonderfully.

3. Keep the Lid On

Avoid lifting the lid while the Rice is simmering. The steam is necessary for the Rice to cook evenly, so keeping the lid on will help ensure it absorbs all the liquid properly.

4. Fluff with a Fork

After cooking, gently fluff the Rice using a fork. This prevents it from clumping together and keeps it light and airy.

Variations of Spanish Rice

There are many ways to customize Spanish Rice, depending on your taste preferences or what you’re serving it with. Here are a few popular variations:

1. Spicy Spanish Rice

Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the recipe to turn up the heat. This variation works well with tacos and grilled meats.

2. Vegetable Spanish Rice

Add diced bell peppers, peas, and carrots for a veggie-packed side dish. This version adds color and nutrients, perfect for pairing with lighter entrees.

3. Spanish Rice with Black Beans

Add cooked black beans to your Spanish Rice for a heartier dish. This variation is ideal for a vegetarian meal or filling enchiladas and fajitas.

4. Cheesy Spanish Rice

Stir in shredded cheese (such as cheddar or Monterey Jack) once the Rice is cooked for a creamy, cheesy side. This option is especially popular with kids and pairs wonderfully with mild main dishes.

Ingredients for Best Spanish Rice

• Two tablespoons vegetable oil
• Two tablespoons finely chopped onion
• 1 ½ cups white Rice, uncooked
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup salsa

Directions

Step 1: Gather all ingredients.

Step 2: Warm the oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Rice to the skillet and stir continuously until the Rice turns golden brown.

Step 4: Pour in chicken broth and salsa, stirring to combine.

Step 5: Lower the heat, cover, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is fully absorbed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Best Spanish Rice

How Do Spanish Rice and Mexican Rice Differ?

While the terms are often used interchangeably, Spanish Rice and Mexican Rice can have slight differences. Traditional Spanish Rice typically has a more golden color due to the use of saffron, while Mexican Rice gets its red color from tomatoes. However, both are similar in texture and are used as side dishes in similar ways.

Is it possible to prepare Spanish Rice using a Rice cooker?

Yes! To make Spanish Rice in a Rice cooker, follow the exact instructions for toasting the Rice, then add all ingredients to the Rice cooker and cook on the standard white Rice setting. The result will be flavorful and fluffy.

How Can I Store and Reheat Spanish Rice?

Spanish Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave it with a splash of water to prevent drying. You can also reheat it on the stovetop with added broth.

Can Spanish Rice Be Made with Brown Rice?

Absolutely! Substitute brown Rice for white Rice in the recipe, but increase the cooking time to 35-40 minutes. You may need to add extra broth or water as brown Rice absorbs more liquid.

Serving Suggestions

Spanish Rice is a versatile side that pairs well with various main dishes. Here are a few ideas:

• Tacos – Serve Spanish Rice alongside your favorite taco fillings for a complete Mexican-inspired meal.
• Grilled Chicken or Steak – The rich flavor of Spanish Rice complements the smokiness of grilled meats.
• Burritos and Enchiladas – Add Spanish Rice to burritos for extra flavor or serve alongside cheesy enchiladas.
• Stuffed Peppers – Spanish Rice is an excellent filling for stuffed bell peppers, adding a hearty base.

Recipe Notes: Best Spanish Rice Recipe: A Flavorful Side Dish for Any Meal

For the Best Spanish Rice Recipe, toast the Rice until golden for a nutty, rich base. Using a quality chicken broth and fresh salsa enhances the flavor, while simmering with the lid on ensures the Rice turns out fluffy and absorbs all the delicious seasonings. Customize your Rice by adding vegetables like bell peppers or peas for extra color and nutrition. This flavorful side dish pairs perfectly with tacos, grilled chicken, or any Mexican-inspired meal!

Conclusion

Spanish Rice is a beloved side dish that adds flavor, color, and texture to any meal. Following these tips and trying out the re, you can make restaurant-quality Spanish Rice at home. Whether served alongside tacos, grilled meats or as part of an enormous Mexican feast, Spanish Rice is a versatile and delicious addition to your culinary repertoire. Give it a try, and enjoy the rich flavors of this classic dish!