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Transform plain rice into a vibrant, flavor-packed side dish that's perfectly seasoned with aromatic spices and studded with colorful vegetables. Whether you call it Spanish or Mexican rice, this one-skillet recipe creates the perfect accompaniment to any Latin-inspired meal. After researching various traditional methods, this version combines the best elements of both Spanish and Mexican preparations.
Last week, I served this alongside chicken tacos, and guests couldn't believe how flavorful simple rice could be. Sometimes the best recipes come from elevating everyday ingredients.
Essential Ingredients
- Long-grain Rice: Creates perfect texture
- Fresh Vegetables: Onions, peppers, jalapeños
- Fresh Garlic: For aromatic base
- Quality Broth: Chicken or vegetable
- Tomato Sauce: Adds rich color and flavor
- Ground Cumin: Provides signature seasoning
Detailed Cooking Instructions
- Vegetable Base:
- Begin by sautéing diced onions, bell peppers, and jalapeños in olive oil until softened. This creates the aromatic foundation that flavors the entire dish. Add garlic in the final minute to prevent burning.
- Rice Toasting:
- Add rice to the vegetables and toast for about two minutes, stirring constantly. This crucial step develops nutty flavor and ensures each grain will cook up fluffy and separate.
- Liquid Addition:
- Pour in tomato sauce and broth, bringing to a rolling boil. The ratio of liquid to rice is crucial for perfect texture. Be precise with measurements for best results.
- Perfect Simmering:
- Cover and reduce heat to low, simmering for 15-20 minutes until liquid is absorbed. Resist the urge to peek - keeping steam trapped is essential for properly cooked rice.
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This recipe bridges the gap between Spanish and Mexican rice traditions. Sometimes the most beloved recipes come from blending different cultural influences.
Temperature Control
The success of this rice lies in proper heat management throughout cooking. Start with medium-high heat for sautéing vegetables and toasting rice, then reduce to the lowest setting for simmering. Think of it as a two-phase process - first developing flavor, then gently cooking to perfection.
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Serving Strategy
This versatile rice works beautifully with:
- Mexican entrées
- Inside burritos
- As a burrito bowl base
- Alongside grilled meats
- In meal prep containers
The possibilities are endless, making it a perfect staple recipe.
Customization Options
Make this recipe your own by:
- Adjusting spice level with jalapeños
- Using different colored bell peppers
- Making it vegetarian with vegetable broth
- Adding extra vegetables
- Incorporating different herbs
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Final Thoughts
This Spanish Rice represents the perfect marriage of technique and flavor. Each grain delivers perfectly seasoned, fluffy results that complement any Mexican or Spanish-inspired meal. Whether you're making tacos or need a versatile side dish, this recipe proves that simple ingredients, properly treated, create something extraordinary.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What's the difference between Spanish and Mexican rice?
- They're essentially the same dish, names are used interchangeably.
- → Can I adjust the spiciness?
- Yes, adjust jalapeño amount or remove seeds for less heat.
- → Why toast the rice?
- Toasting develops nutty flavor and improves final texture.
- → Can I make this vegetarian?
- Yes, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- → Can I freeze this rice?
- Yes, freezes well for up to 3 months in airtight container.