Go Back
–+ servings
Spanish Rice Recipe

Spanish Rice Recipe

Craving a vibrant side dish? This Spanish Rice Recipe brings together fluffy grains, tangy tomato, garlic, onion, and warm spices for an easy, homemade Arroz rojo that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
No ratings yet
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice I like Mahatma or Goya
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1/2 cup yellow onion finely chopped (about half a small onion)
  • 2 cloves garlic minced (sub with 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 1 cup tomato sauce canned Hunt’s or homemade puree
  • 1 3/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder adjust to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika optional, for a smoky note
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions
 

  • In a medium saucepan over medium heat, warm the olive oil until it shimmers. This helps the rice toast evenly.
  • Add the rinsed, drained rice and stir constantly for 3–4 minutes, or until grains turn golden. You’ll smell a nutty aroma—this step keeps it fluffy.
  • Push rice to one side, add chopped onion, and cook 2 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it brown too much.
  • Sprinkle in cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the rice, then pour in tomato sauce, mixing until evenly distributed.
  • Carefully add chicken broth; stir once, bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 18–20 minutes—no peeking!
  • Remove saucepan from burner, keep the lid on, and let it rest 5–7 minutes. This steam finish is key for perfect texture.
  • Remove lid, fluff rice with a fork, stir in cilantro, and transfer to a serving bowl. If you like a touch more zest, squeeze fresh lime juice on top.

Notes

I once accidentally used double the broth—rice was too soupy. Lesson learned: stick to measurements! For a deeper tomato flavor, roast whole Roma tomatoes under the broiler, then blend with garlic for your sauce. If rice sticks to the bottom, add a teaspoon of oil before reheating and stir gently. Using fresh lime juice at the end brightens flavors more than adding it during cooking.
Keyword Arroz Rojo, Fluffy Rice, Gluten-Free, Spanish Rice, Vegetarian
Love this recipe?Follow us at @thenandnowspace for more