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Spanish Rice

This homemade Spanish rice is fluffy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Using simple pantry staples and long-grain white rice, it delivers that classic restaurant-style taste right from your own kitchen. The rice is lightly toasted before simmering in a savory tomato and cumin-infused broth, creating rich flavor and perfect texture in every bite. It pairs beautifully with tacos, enchiladas, burritos, or grilled meats, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Budget-friendly and family-approved, this recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. Once you try this simple method, boxed rice mixes won’t stand a chance.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients
  • For the Rice
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 cups long-grain white rice
  • 1 chicken bouillon cube
  • 4 cups water
  • or substitute with 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth and skip the bouillon
  • 1 8-ounce can tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • A pinch of garlic pepper
  • Optional Garnish
  • Fresh cilantro finely chopped

Method
 

1. Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the vegetable oil.
    2. Stir in the uncooked rice. Cook, stirring frequently, until the grains turn lightly golden and toasted, about 5 minutes. This step adds flavor and helps keep the rice fluffy.
      3. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the bouillon cube and water. Heat for about 3 minutes, or until the cube dissolves completely. (If using broth, you can skip this step.)
        4. Once the rice is nicely browned, carefully pour in the bouillon mixture. Add the tomato sauce, garlic, salt, cumin, and garlic pepper.
          5. Stir everything together thoroughly. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce to a gentle simmer. Cook for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed.
            6. Remove from heat and fluff the rice with a fork before serving. Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top if desired.

              Notes

              Storing, Reheating & Freezing

              Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5–6 days.
              To reheat, warm it in the microwave or in a skillet over the stove until heated through.
              Yes, this rice freezes beautifully. Divide about 3 cups of cooled rice into freezer-safe zip-top bags. Label and freeze for up to 4–6 months.
              When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or reheat directly from frozen. Microwave on high, stirring every 2 minutes, until thoroughly warmed.

              FAQ & Helpful Tips

              How much rice should you plan per person?
               Allow about ¼ cup of uncooked rice per serving. Once cooked, that equals roughly ¾ to 1 cup per person. Three cups of uncooked rice typically serves about 12 people.
              What type of rice works best?
               Long-grain white rice is ideal because it cooks up light and separate instead of sticky.
              Can you use brown rice instead?
               Absolutely. Replace white rice with brown rice, add an extra ⅓ cup of water per cup of rice, and extend the cooking time until tender.
              Can salsa replace tomato sauce?
               Yes. Salsa adds extra flavor and a little heat. Choose mild or spicy depending on your preference.
              What toppings pair well?
               Try chopped bell peppers, green onions, fresh cilantro, or diced onions for added freshness and texture.

              Final Thoughts

              This homemade Spanish rice is simple, budget-friendly, and packed with comforting flavor. Toasting the rice before simmering gives it that classic texture, while the tomato and cumin create that signature taste everyone loves. Whether served alongside tacos, enchiladas, or as a standalone dish, it’s reliable, freezer-friendly, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Once you make it from scratch, you may never go back to boxed versions again.