Rice > Spanish

Easy Spanish Rice Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Special equipment needed: None

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Rinse the rice under cold water and drain well.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the garlic, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
5. Add the rice and stir to coat with the vegetable mixture.
6. Add the chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid.
8. Simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
9. Remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
10. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the chopped cilantro.

10 minutes preparation time, 25 minutes cooking time
Temperature: Medium-high heat to start, then low heat to simmer
Serving size: 4 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Protein: 5g
- Fiber: 2g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Vegetable broth can be used instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option.
- Any color bell pepper can be used or a combination of colors.
- Fresh garlic can be used instead of minced garlic.

Variations:
- Add diced tomatoes or tomato sauce for a tomato-based Spanish rice.
- Add cooked ground beef or chorizo for a meaty Spanish rice.
- Add black beans or kidney beans for a more filling Spanish rice.

Tips and tricks:
- Rinse the rice well to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
- Use a large skillet with a tight-fitting lid to ensure even cooking.
- Do not lift the lid while the rice is cooking to prevent steam from escaping.

Storage instructions:
- Store leftover Spanish rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the Spanish rice in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the Spanish rice in a colorful bowl or on a platter garnished with fresh cilantro.

Garnishes:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, or diced tomatoes can be used as garnishes.

Pairings:
- Spanish rice pairs well with grilled chicken, steak, or fish.

Suggested side dishes:
- Spanish rice can be served with refried beans, guacamole, or a simple salad.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the rice is still undercooked after 20 minutes, add a splash of water or broth and continue cooking until tender.

Food safety advice:
- Store leftover Spanish rice in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
- Reheat leftover Spanish rice to an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

Food history:
- Spanish rice is a popular side dish in Mexican cuisine and is often served with tacos, enchiladas, or burritos.

Flavor profiles:
- Spanish rice has a savory and slightly spicy flavor with a hint of smokiness from the paprika.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve the Spanish rice as a side dish or use it as a filling for burritos or enchiladas.

Related Categories

Cooking Method: N/A

Course Type: N/A

Dietary: N/A

Ingredient: N/A

Meal type: N/A

Occassion: N/A

Region: Mexican

Taste: Savory, Spicy, Tangy, Aromatic, Flavorful