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A white ceramic bowl filled with vibrant homemade Spanish rice, showcasing its fluffy texture and rich red color.

Spanish Rice Recipe (The Authentic & Easy Way)

This authentic Spanish Rice Recipe delivers vibrant, fluffy, and deeply flavorful rice. It's the perfect, easy-to-make side dish for any weeknight meal, guaranteed to be a family favorite with its rich tomato and cumin flavor.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Mexican, Spanish, Tex-Mex
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 1 medium Onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1.5 cups Long-grain White Rice uncooked
  • 8 oz Tomato Sauce
  • 2.5 cups Chicken Broth or vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp Ground Cumin
  • 1 tsp Salt or to taste
  • 0.5 tsp Black Pepper
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Cilantro chopped, for garnish (optional)

Equipment

  • 1 Large Skillet or Saucepan with Lid
  • 1 Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic and uncooked rice to the skillet. Stir frequently for 2-3 minutes, until the rice is lightly golden and fragrant.
  3. Stir in the tomato sauce, chicken broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to the lowest setting, cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed.
  5. Remove the skillet from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 10 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time. After resting, fluff the rice gently with a fork.
  6. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

For extra flavor: Toast 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano along with the cumin.
Make it spicy: Add 1/4 teaspoon of chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper with the other spices.
Broth matters: Using a quality chicken or vegetable broth will significantly enhance the flavor.
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