Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Spanish Rice: A Savory Staple in International Recipes

Recipe by Evelyn Marcella Rivera

This flavorful Spanish rice is an aromatic, tomato-based side dish that perfectly complements any meal. Infused with the warmth of cumin and smoked paprika—and optionally brightened with saffron—this savory staple offers a delightful mix of textures and vibrant colors, making it a must-have in international cuisine.

  • Total Time35 minutes
  • Yield4 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 cup Long grain white rice (Rinsed)
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil (For sautéing)
  • 1 medium Onion (Diced)
  • 1 medium Red bell pepper (Diced)
  • 3 cloves Garlic (Minced)
  • 1 can Diced tomatoes (14.5 oz, with juices)
  • 2 cups Chicken broth (Substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
  • 1 tsp Ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp Smoked paprika
  • 1 pinch - Saffron threads (Optional; steep in a small amount of warm broth before use)
  • To taste - Salt and pepper (Adjust according to preference)
  • 1/4 cup Frozen peas (Optional; add during the last 5 minutes of cooking)
  • A few - Fresh cilantro (Chopped, for garnish)

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper; sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.

Toast the Rice:

  1. Add the rinsed rice to the pot and stir for 1–2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast and absorb the flavors.

Add Liquid and Spices:

  1. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and chicken broth.
  2. Stir in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, and saffron (if using).
  3. Season with salt and pepper, and stir to combine.

Simmer the Rice:

  1. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
  2. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  3. If using frozen peas, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Finish and Serve:

  1. Remove the pot from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for a few minutes.
  2. Fluff with a fork, garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, and serve warm.

Notes

  • For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of lime juice just before serving.
  • This versatile dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, or as a hearty component in a vegetarian meal.
  • Feel free to experiment with additional vegetables or spices to tailor the dish to your taste.

Enjoy your Spanish Rice—a savory staple that brings a taste of international flair to your table!

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: Spanish

Nutrition

  • Calories: 200

Find it online: https://blesseddish.com/spanish-rice-a-savory-staple-in-international-recipes/