Spiced Spanish Fiesta Rice
This Spiced Spanish Fiesta Rice is a delightful and hearty dish that brings together the vibrant flavors of Spanish cuisine. With a medley of vegetables and a charming blend of spices, it not only pairs perfectly with any meal but also stands proudly on its own. Feel free to adjust the red pepper to suit your heat preference, making each bite a delicious celebration of flavor. Perfect for family gatherings or as a comforting weeknight dinner, this rice dish is sure to become a beloved staple in your home.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
15
Ingredients
Ingredients
Margarine
1/4 cup (Melted)
Onion
1 small (Chopped)
Bell Pepper
1/2 cup (Chopped)
Carrot
1 (Peeled and finely chopped)
Celery
1 stalk (Chopped)
Garlic
1 clove (Crushed)
White Rice
1 cup (Uncooked)
Mexican-style Stewed Tomatoes
1 (14 1/2 ounce) can (Canned)
Tomato Sauce
1 (8 ounce) can (Canned)
Water
1 1/4 cups (N/A)
Salt
1 teaspoon (N/A)
Black Pepper
1/2 teaspoon (N/A)
Chili Powder
1 teaspoon (To taste)
Cumin
1/2 teaspoon (N/A)
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
1 dash (N/A)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, melt the margarine over medium heat.
2
Add the chopped onions, bell pepper, finely chopped carrot, chopped celery, minced garlic, and the uncooked white rice to the saucepan. Cook, stirring frequently, until the rice is lightly browned and the vegetables have softened, approximately 5-7 minutes.
3
Stir in the can of Mexican-style stewed tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, salt, black pepper, chili powder, cumin, and a dash of crushed red pepper flakes. Mix until well combined.
4
Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
5
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 30 minutes or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6
Once cooked, remove from heat and let it sit covered for a few minutes before fluffing with a fork. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spiced Spanish Fiesta Rice?
Spiced Spanish Fiesta Rice is a hearty and vibrant dish featuring rice, a medley of vegetables, and a blend of Spanish-inspired spices like cumin and chili powder.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it uses margarine, vegetables, and rice without any meat products.
Can I use butter instead of margarine?
Yes, butter can be easily substituted for margarine to provide a richer flavor to the dish.
How long does it take to cook the rice?
The rice takes approximately 30 minutes to simmer after the initial 5 to 7 minutes of sautéing the vegetables.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you will need to increase the water amount and the cooking time to approximately 45-50 minutes.
What kind of onion is best for this recipe?
A small white or yellow onion is recommended for its balanced flavor and sweetness when cooked.
Is this Spanish rice dish very spicy?
It has a mild to moderate heat level that can be adjusted by increasing or decreasing the crushed red pepper flakes.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, the recipe is naturally vegan if you ensure the margarine used is plant-based.
What are Mexican-style stewed tomatoes?
These are canned tomatoes typically seasoned with ingredients like green chilies, onions, and celery for added flavor.
Can I add protein like chicken or shrimp?
Absolutely, you can stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chorizo at the end of the cooking process.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can this Spiced Spanish Fiesta Rice be frozen?
Yes, it freezes well. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months and thaw before reheating.
What should I serve with this rice?
It pairs perfectly with tacos, enchiladas, grilled meats, or can be enjoyed as a standalone meal.
How many servings does this recipe make?
Based on the ingredients, this recipe typically serves 4 to 6 people as a side dish.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned stewed tomatoes?
Yes, though you may need to add a bit more salt and spices to match the flavor profile of the canned version.
Why do I need to brown the rice first?
Sautéing the rice in margarine adds a nutty depth of flavor and helps the grains stay separate after cooking.
Can I cook this dish in a rice cooker?
Yes, sauté the rice and vegetables in a pan first, then transfer everything to a rice cooker with the liquids and spices.
What if the rice is still hard after 30 minutes?
Add a tablespoon or two of water, cover tightly, and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Can I skip the celery in this recipe?
Yes, if you don't enjoy celery, you can omit it or replace it with extra bell pepper or carrot.
Is this dish gluten-free?
The main ingredients are gluten-free, but always check the labels on your tomato sauce and chili powder to be certain.
How do I make the rice less spicy?
To reduce the heat, simply omit the crushed red pepper flakes and reduce the amount of chili powder used.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, you can substitute 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for the one fresh clove called for in the recipe.
What does cumin add to the flavor of the rice?
Cumin provides a warm, earthy, and slightly smoky aroma that is essential for authentic Spanish-style rice.
Can I double this recipe for a large group?
Yes, just ensure you use a large enough pot to allow the rice to expand as it absorbs the liquid.
Should the pot be covered while the rice simmers?
Yes, keeping the pot covered is crucial to trap the steam and ensure the rice cooks evenly.
What is the purpose of the tomato sauce in this recipe?
The tomato sauce adds a rich color, savory depth, and moisture to the rice mixture.
Can I use olive oil instead of margarine?
Yes, olive oil is a great healthy alternative that works well for sautéing the rice and vegetables.
How do I fluff the rice properly?
Use a fork to gently lift and separate the grains once they have finished steaming after the heat is turned off.
Can I add other vegetables like peas or corn?
Yes, adding peas or corn during the last few minutes of simmering is a great way to add extra color and texture.
Is this a good recipe for meal prep?
Yes, it reheats very well in the microwave, making it an excellent option for prepared lunches throughout the week.