Spanish Rice Recipe: A Flavorful and Easy Side Dish
When youโre looking for a quick and satisfying side dish, Spanish Rice is a fantastic choice that brings both flavor and simplicity to your table. This recipe, lovingly shared by my mother-in-law, has become a staple in our home. Itโs incredibly versatile and straightforward, perfect for busy days or family dinners. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a delicious batch of Spanish Rice thatโs bound to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup long grain rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 chicken bouillon cubes
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons oil (for browning)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Rice and Onion: Start by heating 2 tablespoons of oil in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 cup of long grain rice and the chopped onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent and the rice starts to turn a golden hue. This step is crucial for developing the riceโs flavor, so take your time to get that beautiful golden color.
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Combine Ingredients: Once the rice is golden and the onion is softened, itโs time to add the remaining ingredients. Stir in 2 cups of water, 1 cup of tomato sauce, 1 tablespoon of dried parsley, 2 chicken bouillon cubes, and 1 teaspoon of salt. The bouillon cubes will dissolve and infuse the rice with a rich, savory flavor.
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Cook the Rice: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer gently for 20 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during this time as it can interrupt the cooking process and affect the texture of the rice.
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Finish and Serve: After 20 minutes, remove the pan from the heat. Let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow the rice to finish steaming. Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains before serving. This step ensures that the rice is light and fluffy rather than clumpy.
Tips for Perfect Spanish Rice:
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Rice to Water Ratio: The key to perfect Spanish Rice is to use the right rice-to-water ratio. For every cup of rice, use 2 cups of water. This ratio ensures that the rice cooks evenly and absorbs all the flavors.
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Pan Choice: For the best results, use a heavy-bottomed pan instead of a non-stick pan. A heavy pan distributes heat more evenly, which helps in achieving a better texture for the rice.
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Flavor Variations: Feel free to add other seasonings or ingredients to customize your Spanish Rice. A pinch of cumin, a dash of chili powder, or some finely chopped bell peppers can add an extra layer of flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 244.3
- Fat Content: 7.4g
- Saturated Fat Content: 1g
- Cholesterol Content: 0.3mg
- Sodium Content: 1125mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 39.6g
- Fiber Content: 1.1g
- Sugar Content: 1.6g
- Protein Content: 4g
This Spanish Rice is not just a delicious side dish; itโs also a healthy option, low in cholesterol and packed with flavor. Whether youโre serving it alongside a hearty main course or enjoying it as part of a festive meal, this recipe is sure to become a beloved addition to your culinary repertoire.
Enjoy making and sharing this simple yet flavorful Spanish Rice with your family and friends. Itโs a wonderful example of how basic ingredients can come together to create something truly delightful! ๐๐๐