Simple Spanish Rice Recipe

Introduction

Simple Spanish Rice is a flavorful and easy side dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of meals. Using pantry staples like diced tomatoes and fragrant spices, this dish comes together quickly for a satisfying homemade touch.

Ingredients

• 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 to 1½ cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Drain the diced tomatoes, reserving the juice in a measuring cup. You should have about ⅓ to ½ cup of tomato juice. Add broth to the tomato juice until you have 1½ cups of total liquid.
2. Step 2: In a medium saucepot, combine the tomato juice and broth mixture, jasmine rice, cumin, chili powder, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Step 3: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook undisturbed for 20 minutes.
4. Step 4: After 20 minutes, turn off the heat and keep the pot covered. Let the rice rest for another 10 minutes to absorb any remaining liquid.
5. Step 5: Fluff the rice gently with a fork or spoon. Stir in the reserved diced tomatoes and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and cilantro to taste.

Tips & Variations

• Use low-sodium broth to better control the salt level and adjust seasoning at the end.
• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeño.
• Swap jasmine rice for long-grain white rice if preferred, adjusting liquid if needed.
• Add diced bell peppers or onions along with the spices for extra flavor and texture.

Storage

Store leftover Spanish rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, but brown rice will require more liquid and a longer cooking time (about 40-45 minutes). Adjust the broth accordingly and cook until tender.

Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?

Absolutely. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegan-friendly without sacrificing flavor.

Simple Spanish Rice Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.4 from 91 reviews

A simple and flavorful Spanish rice recipe made with jasmine rice, diced tomatoes, and a blend of classic spices. Perfect as a side dish for Mexican and Spanish-inspired meals, this recipe combines aromatic cumin, chili powder, and other seasonings for a delicious and easy-to-make rice dish.

• Author: Kai
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Spanish
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 to 1½ cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare Liquid: Drain the diced tomatoes, reserving the juice in a measuring cup. You should get about ⅓ to ½ cup of tomato juice. Add broth (vegetable or chicken) to the tomato juice to measure a total of 1½ cups of liquid.
2. Cook Rice: In a medium saucepot, combine the tomato juice and broth mixture, jasmine rice, cumin, chili powder, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let the rice cook undisturbed for 20 minutes.
4. Rest Rice: After 20 minutes, turn off the heat but keep the pot covered. Let the rice rest and steam for an additional 10 minutes.
5. Finish and Serve: Fluff the cooked rice gently with a fork or spoon. Stir in the reserved diced tomatoes. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve warm.

Notes

• Using jasmine rice provides a fragrant aroma and ideal texture for this dish.
• You can substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth depending on dietary preference.
• Letting the rice rest after cooking ensures perfect fluffiness and absorption of flavors.
• Add fresh lime juice or diced green chilies to enhance flavor if desired.
• This dish pairs well with grilled meats, beans, or as a side to tacos and fajitas.

Keywords: Spanish rice, jasmine rice, easy Spanish rice recipe, simple rice side dish, vegetarian Spanish rice, rice with diced tomatoes, cumin rice