How to Make Classic Spanish Rice: A Step-by-Step Guide
Spanish Rice is the perfect side dish for taco night or any Mexican-inspired meal! This flavorful rice is cooked with spices, tomatoes, and chicken stock to give it a vibrant, savory taste. It’s an easy, one-pot recipe that’s ideal for adding a little something extra to your weeknight dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Spanish Rice
- Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of the ingredients already in your pantry.
- Quick to Make: With just a few steps, you can have flavorful rice in about 30 minutes.
- Perfect Side Dish: It pairs beautifully with tacos, enchiladas, grilled chicken, or steak.
Ingredients for Spanish Rice
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup rice (uncooked, long grain white rice)
- 2 cups chicken stock (or water)
- 1 ½ teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- ¼ cup diced tomatoes (optional, fresh or canned)
How to Make Spanish Rice
Step 1: Heat Oil and Butter
In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat.
Step 2: Toast the Rice
Add 1 cup of uncooked rice to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until the rice turns golden brown. This step adds a delicious nutty flavor to the rice.
Step 3: Add Spices and Chicken Stock
Stir in 1 ½ teaspoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon oregano. Pour in 2 cups chicken stock and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Simmer
Add ¼ cup diced tomatoes to the pan. Lower the heat, cover, and simmer the rice for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed.
Step 5: Fluff and Serve
Remove the rice from heat, let it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Serve as a side dish with your favorite Mexican dishes.
Tips for the Best Spanish Rice
- Toast the Rice: Browning the rice before adding the liquid enhances the flavor.
- Use Chicken Stock: For a richer taste, cook the rice in chicken stock rather than water.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add chopped onions, bell peppers, or even corn to the rice for extra flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this Spanish Rice with tacos, fajitas, or enchiladas.
- Serve it as a side for grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp.
- Add a sprinkle of cheese or a dollop of sour cream on top for a creamy finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Spanish Rice in Advance?
Yes! You can make the rice ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I Use Brown Rice?
Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice will take longer to cook, so you’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I Make Spanish Rice Without Tomatoes?
Yes, if you don’t like tomatoes or don’t have any on hand, you can omit them. The rice will still be flavorful thanks to the spices.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Spanish Rice is the perfect side dish to spice up any meal. It’s flavorful, easy to make, and works well with so many dishes. Whether you’re planning a Mexican-themed dinner or just looking for a quick and delicious side, this recipe will hit the spot every time!
Spanish Rice
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp oil
- 1 Tbsp butter
- 1 cup long grain white rice uncooked
- 2 cups chicken stock or water
- 1 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/4 cup diced tomatoes optional
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat.
- Add 1 cup of uncooked rice to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until the rice turns golden brown.
- Stir in 1 ½ teaspoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon oregano. Pour in 2 cups chicken stock and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add ¼ cup diced tomatoes to the pan. Lower the heat, cover, and simmer the rice for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove the rice from heat, let it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.