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Spanish Rice Recipe

5 from 117 reviews

This classic Spanish Rice recipe features long-grain white rice toasted to a golden brown and then simmered in a flavorful mixture of chicken broth, tomato sauce, garlic, and spices. The result is a warm, aromatic, and savory side dish perfect for complementing Mexican and Tex-Mex meals. A fresh cilantro garnish adds a bright, herbaceous finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Rice and Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 cups long-grain white rice
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Dash garlic pepper
  • Chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Broth and Sauce

  • 1 cube chicken-flavored bouillon
  • 4 cups water (or 4 cups low sodium chicken broth as an alternative to water and bouillon)
  • 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce

Instructions

  1. Heat oil: Place a large frying pan over medium heat and add the vegetable oil, warming it until shimmering.
  2. Toast rice: Add the long-grain white rice to the pan and cook while stirring continuously for about 5 minutes, or until the rice turns a golden brown color, which adds a nutty flavor.
  3. Prepare broth mixture: In a microwave-safe container, combine the chicken-flavored bouillon cube and 4 cups of water. Microwave the mixture for 3 minutes to dissolve the bouillon and warm the liquid.
  4. Add liquids and seasonings: Once the rice is golden, pour in the prepared bouillon mixture along with the tomato sauce. Add the minced garlic, salt, ground cumin, and a dash of garlic pepper. Stir everything together to combine.
  5. Simmer the rice: Cover the frying pan tightly and reduce the heat to low. Let the mixture simmer gently for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the rice has absorbed all the liquid and is tender.
  6. Fluff and garnish: Remove the pan from heat, fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains, and sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • You can substitute low sodium chicken broth for the water and bouillon cube to reduce sodium intake.
  • Stir the rice occasionally during simmering to avoid sticking and uneven cooking.
  • For a spicier version, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • Ensure the pan is tightly covered to allow the rice to steam properly.
  • This recipe works well as a side dish for grilled meats, beans, or enchiladas.

Keywords: Spanish rice, Mexican rice, side dish, savory rice, tomato rice, cumin rice