spanish rice recipe.

 

Spanish Rice Recipe (Authentic Arroz Rojo)

Spanish Rice, also known as Arroz Rojo, is a classic Mexican side dish made with rice, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and warm spices. Fluffy, flavorful, and slightly smoky, this dish is the perfect side to serve with tacos, enchiladas, grilled meats, or beans. The best part? It’s a one-pot recipe that comes together in under 30 minutes!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic flavors – cooked with tomatoes, onions, and spices.
• One-pot & easy – simple ingredients, minimal effort.
• Versatile – pairs with any Mexican or Tex-Mex dish.
• Budget-friendly – made with pantry staples.

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Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked, rinsed)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium tomatoes, blended (or 1 cup tomato puree)
• 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon chili powder or paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (optional, for serving)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Toast the rice

   • Heat olive oil in a skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
   • Add rice and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until lightly golden.

2. Sauté aromatics

   • Add chopped onion and garlic. Cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes.

3. Add tomatoes & spices

   • Stir in blended tomatoes (or puree), cumin, chili powder, and salt.
   • Cook for 2–3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.

4. Cook the rice

   • Pour in chicken broth, stir well, and bring to a boil.
   • Reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer for 18–20 minutes until rice is tender.

5. Fluff & serve

   • Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.
   • Fluff with a fork, garnish with cilantro, and serve with lime wedges.

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Nutrition (Per Serving, Approx.)

• Calories: 210 kcal
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 6g
• Carbs: 36g
• Fiber: 2g

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Tips & Variations

• Use brown rice for a whole-grain version (increase cook time by 10 minutes).
• Add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Stir in peas or corn for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it vegan by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Similar Recipes for Spanish Rice Recipe :

1. Mexican Red Rice (Arroz Rojo Mexicano)

A traditional Mexican rice dish simmered with tomatoes, onion, garlic, and chicken broth — very close to Spanish rice but with regional flavors.

2. Cilantro Lime Rice

A zesty side dish made with fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro — light, refreshing, and perfect for tacos or burritos.

3. Tomato Basil Rice

Fragrant rice simmered with tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil for an Italian-inspired side dish.

4. Saffron Rice (Arroz Amarillo)

Golden-yellow rice flavored with saffron threads or turmeric, often served with grilled meats and stews.

5. Vegetable Pulao (Indian Veg Rice)

A lightly spiced Indian rice dish cooked with mixed vegetables, whole spices, and basmati rice.