Pierre’s Spanish Rice 🥘
Description: After 40 years of stealing Spanish rice recipes, this is what I have come up with to date. “Watch for future development.”
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 279.9 per serving
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 tbsp | Olive oil |
| 1 1/2 cup | Basmati rice |
| 2 | Onions |
| 1/2 | Red bell pepper |
| 1/2 | Yellow bell pepper |
| 1/2 | Green bell pepper |
| 2 cloves | Garlic cloves |
| 1/4 tsp | Cumin |
| 1 | Roma tomatoes |
| 1 pinch | Saffron strands |
Instructions:
- Heat oil over medium-high heat in a heavy pan or Dutch oven (cast iron works best).
- Pour in rice and sauté (stir fry) until it starts to turn translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add onions, bell peppers, garlic, red chilies, and cumin. Sauté until onions turn translucent.
- Mix in tomatoes, several saffron strands, and stock. Stir well.
- When it starts to boil, reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 20 minutes. No peeking!
- After the full 20 minutes, uncover and check to see if all of the liquid has been absorbed. The rice should be moist but have no visible liquid.
- Serve hot.
Notes:
- This recipe is versatile; feel free to experiment!
- Try frying chopped salt pork instead of olive oil for a different flavor profile.
- Using bacon instead of olive oil also adds a unique taste.
- For a one-dish meal, add Danish or Italian meatballs at step #3 (see my other recipes).
- Adjust the heat by adding chilies of various flavors and amounts at step #3.
- The only limit to this recipe is how far you want to take it. Have fun! 🎉
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 279.9
- Fat: 7.2g
- Saturated Fat: 1.2g
- Cholesterol: 2.4mg
- Sodium: 125.1mg
- Carbohydrates: 47.6g
- Fiber: 3.6g
- Sugar: 5.8g
- Protein: 7.1g
This Spanish rice recipe, developed over years of culinary exploration, offers a burst of flavor and vibrant colors. The combination of bell peppers, onions, garlic, and tomatoes creates a harmonious base, while the saffron adds a subtle yet distinctive aroma. The careful sautéing of the ingredients enhances their natural sweetness, resulting in a dish that’s both savory and comforting.
The process begins with heating olive oil in a sturdy pan or Dutch oven. This ensures even cooking and prevents the rice from sticking. Basmati rice, known for its fragrant aroma and delicate texture, is then added and sautéed until it turns translucent, creating a nutty flavor profile.
Next, a medley of onions, bell peppers (red, yellow, and green), garlic, and red chilies join the mix, infusing the rice with layers of complexity and a hint of spice. The addition of cumin adds warmth and depth to the dish, complementing the earthiness of the other ingredients.
To elevate the dish further, ripe Roma tomatoes are incorporated, imparting a rich, tangy sweetness. A pinch of saffron threads lends a subtle floral note and a beautiful golden hue to the rice, making it visually appealing.
As the mixture simmers gently, the flavors meld together, creating a symphony of tastes and aromas. The aroma wafting from the pot is irresistible, teasing the taste buds and building anticipation for the final dish.
After 20 minutes of simmering, the lid is lifted to reveal perfectly cooked rice, with each grain infused with the flavors of the Mediterranean. The rice should be moist yet fluffy, with no excess liquid remaining—a testament to careful cooking and attention to detail.
Pierre’s Spanish Rice is not just a recipe; it’s a culinary journey—a reflection of years of passion, experimentation, and dedication to the art of cooking. With each bite, you’ll experience the warmth of Spanish cuisine and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and embark on your own culinary adventure with Pierre’s Spanish Rice.
