Spanish Rice Recipe 🌾🍅
Description: Make and share this delightful Spanish Rice recipe from lovewithrecipes.com. It’s a vibrant, flavorful dish perfect for any occasion, bringing the essence of Spanish cuisine right to your table. This recipe is a delightful blend of vegetables and spices, creating a dish that is both comforting and satisfying.
Cooking Time Summary ⏰
Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Total Time |
---|---|---|
10 minutes | 12 minutes | 22 minutes |
Ingredients 🥘
To craft this delicious Spanish Rice, gather the following ingredients:

- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 cups tomatoes, diced
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 beef bouillon cube
- 2 cups rice
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Nutritional Information 🌿
For those keeping an eye on nutritional intake, here’s a breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 328.9
- Fat: 12.4g
- Saturated Fat: 7.5g
- Cholesterol: 30.7mg
- Sodium: 981.3mg
- Carbohydrates: 49.3g
- Fiber: 2.8g
- Sugars: 5.8g
- Protein: 5.5g
Servings 🍽️
This recipe yields 4 servings.
Cooking Instructions 🥄
-
Melt the Butter:
- Start by melting 1/4 cup of butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. This will provide a rich base for the rice, infusing it with a subtle, buttery flavor.
-
Brown the Rice:
- Add 2 cups of rice to the melted butter. Stir continuously until the rice is lightly browned. This step is crucial as it helps toasting the rice, giving it a nutty flavor and a slightly crispy texture that enhances the final dish.
-
Prepare the Liquid Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of boiling water with 1 beef bouillon cube, stirring until the cube is fully dissolved. This mixture will add depth and a savory richness to the rice.
-
Add Vegetables and Spices:
- To the browned rice, add 2 cups of diced tomatoes, 1 finely chopped onion, and 1 minced garlic clove. Stir well to ensure the rice is evenly mixed with the vegetables.
- Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. The sugar helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, while the salt and pepper add essential seasoning.
-
Combine and Bring to a Boil:
- Pour the prepared bouillon mixture into the saucepan with the rice and vegetables. Add 1 bay leaf for a subtle, earthy aroma.
- Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. This is a crucial step to ensure all flavors meld together harmoniously.
-
Simmer the Rice:
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid and let the mixture simmer for 12 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb all the liquid and flavors, cooking to perfection.
-
Finish and Serve:
- After 12 minutes, check the rice. It should be tender and fully cooked, with the liquid absorbed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains, and transfer it to a serving dish.
Tips for Perfect Spanish Rice 🌟
- Rice Selection: Use long-grain white rice for the best texture and fluffiness.
- Bouillon Substitute: If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the beef bouillon cube with a vegetable bouillon cube.
- Fresh Tomatoes: For an extra burst of freshness, use ripe, juicy tomatoes instead of canned ones.
- Add-Ins: Customize your Spanish Rice by adding peas, bell peppers, or corn for additional color and flavor.
- Herbs: Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a touch of green and added aroma.
Serving Suggestions 🌮
Spanish Rice is a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of mains:
- Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavor of grilled chicken complements the rich, savory notes of the rice.
- Tacos: Serve alongside beef or veggie tacos for a complete Mexican-inspired meal.
- Fish: A light, flaky fish like tilapia or cod works wonderfully with this flavorful rice.
- Beans: For a hearty vegetarian meal, serve Spanish Rice with black beans or refried beans.
Final Thoughts 💭
This Spanish Rice recipe is a delightful dish that brings a taste of Spain into your kitchen. Its quick preparation time and easy-to-follow steps make it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or as a flavorful side for your next potluck. The combination of buttery rice, vibrant tomatoes, and aromatic spices creates a comforting and satisfying dish that everyone will love. Enjoy the rich flavors and the joy of sharing this delicious recipe with your loved ones! 🌞🍚🌶️