Flavorful Spanish Rice with Tomato Sauce
This delightful Spanish Rice recipe incorporates the rich flavors of tomato sauce, garlic, and onions, creating a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect as a side or main course. Ideal for those who can't use whole tomatoes, this recipe ensures you can enjoy all the classic flavors without compromising on texture or taste. The use of chicken or vegetable broth adds depth, while the sautéed garlic and onions provide a fragrant base. Serve this rice alongside your favorite proteins or enjoy it on its own for a heartwarming meal.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Long Grain Rice
1 1/2 cups (uncooked)
Chicken Broth or Vegetable Broth
2 cups (preferably low-sodium)
Tomato Sauce
1 cup (no-salt added if desired)
Garlic Cloves
3 (minced)
Onion
1/4 cup (chopped)
Oil
2 tablespoons (such as olive oil or vegetable oil)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat.
2
Add the minced garlic and chopped onions to the pan, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
3
Stir in the dry rice and continue to cook, stirring frequently, for about 5 minutes or until the rice is lightly golden.
4
Carefully pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and the tomato sauce. Stir to combine, making sure not to pour directly onto the hot pan to avoid splattering.
5
Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan.
6
Allow the rice to simmer for 20 minutes without lifting the lid.
7
After 20 minutes, remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes.
8
Fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Flavorful Spanish Rice with Tomato Sauce?
It is a comforting and savory side dish or main course made by sautéing long grain rice with garlic and onions, then simmering it in a mixture of broth and tomato sauce.
What type of rice is best for this recipe?
Long grain white rice is recommended for this recipe as it remains fluffy and separate after cooking.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice requires more liquid and a significantly longer cooking time, usually around 45 minutes.
How do I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make this recipe vegetarian, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Is this Spanish Rice recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you ensure the broth and tomato sauce used are certified gluten-free, the base ingredients of rice and vegetables are naturally gluten-free.
What if I don't have fresh garlic?
You can substitute 3 minced garlic cloves with approximately 3/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, added when you pour in the liquids.
Can I substitute the tomato sauce?
Tomato sauce provides the specific smooth texture for this version, but you could use crushed tomatoes or tomato paste mixed with water if necessary.
Why do I need to sauté the rice before adding liquid?
Sautéing the dry rice in oil until golden browns the grain, which adds a nutty flavor and helps prevent the rice from becoming mushy.
What type of oil should I use?
Neutral oils like vegetable oil or canola oil work well, or you can use olive oil for a slightly richer flavor profile.
Can I use water instead of broth?
You can use water, but using chicken or vegetable broth adds significantly more depth and savory flavor to the finished dish.
How long does the rice need to simmer?
The rice should simmer on low heat for exactly 20 minutes while covered.
Why shouldn't I lift the lid while the rice is simmering?
Lifting the lid releases the steam and heat necessary to cook the rice evenly, which can result in undercooked or uneven grains.
What is the purpose of letting the rice sit for 5 minutes after cooking?
This resting period allows the moisture to redistribute throughout the pot, ensuring the rice is perfectly tender and easy to fluff.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
Using 1 1/2 cups of dry rice typically yields about 4 to 6 side-dish servings.
Can I add other vegetables like peas or carrots?
Absolutely. You can add small diced carrots with the onions or stir in frozen peas during the final 5-minute resting period.
What should I do if the rice is still crunchy after 20 minutes?
Add a splash more broth, cover tightly, and simmer for another 5 minutes on very low heat.
Is this recipe spicy?
As written, this recipe is mild and flavorful rather than spicy. You can add jalapeños or cayenne pepper if you prefer heat.
How do I store leftover Spanish rice?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days.
Can I freeze Spanish rice?
Yes, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
What is the best way to reheat this rice?
Reheat in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist, or in a skillet over medium-low heat.
Can I make this in a rice cooker?
Yes, sauté the garlic, onions, and rice in a pan first, then transfer everything to a rice cooker and use the standard white rice setting.
What proteins go well with Spanish Rice?
It pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, tacos, enchiladas, carnitas, or even fried eggs.
Can I use a different type of onion?
Yes, while white or yellow onions are traditional, red onions or even shallots can be used for a slightly different flavor.
Should I wash the rice before cooking?
For this specific style where you sauté the rice in oil, many chefs prefer not to rinse it so it browns better, but you can rinse it if you prefer less starch.
What does 'fluff with a fork' mean?
It means to gently lift and separate the rice grains using the tines of a fork to avoid mashing them into a paste.
Can I add cumin or chili powder?
Yes, adding 1/2 teaspoon of cumin or chili powder during the sautéing stage can enhance the traditional 'Spanish rice' flavor profile.
Is it okay to use salted tomato sauce?
If using salted tomato sauce and regular broth, you may want to avoid adding extra salt until you taste the finished dish to prevent it from being too salty.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients; just ensure you use a large enough pot and maintain the same 20-minute simmer time.
Is this a good recipe for meal prep?
Yes, it holds up very well when reheated, making it an excellent choice for weekly meal preparation.
What makes this 'Spanish' rice?
In American cuisine, 'Spanish Rice' or 'Mexican Rice' refers to rice browned in oil and then cooked with tomato, garlic, and onion to achieve a reddish color and savory taste.