This simple Spanish Rice with Tomato Sauce is a flavorful and easy side dish. It uses pantry staples such as onion, garlic, cumin and chicken broth. No blending or bouillon required. It pairs beautifully with chicken, beef or seafood.
Heat the oil in a large dutch oven or pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the uncooked rice and diced onion. Saute for about 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions sweat and the rice turns lightly golden. Reduce heat if browning too quickly.
Add the minced garlic and saute for 30-60 seconds (watch carefully because it can burn quickly). Continue to stir the garlic into the rice and onion.
Pour in the broth and tomato sauce and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the liquid has evaporated and the rice is tender.
Remove from the heat and add the cumin, salt and pepper. Gently fluff the rice with a fork to combine. Put the lid back on and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Taste and adjust the seasoning and salt if needed.
Notes
Notes:Storing and reheating:
Store any leftover Spanish Rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Helpful tips:
When sauteing the rice, it should turn golden, not burn. Seasoning can be added as it cooks as well, I just have always added it last.
Start with ¼-½ teaspoon of salt and then add more as needed. For more flavor and spice, add chopped jalapenos as it cooks or fresh cilantro in the end.
Vegetable broth works if you want it vegetarian/vegan.
Allowing the rice to rest for 5 minutes will give it the best texture. Don't skip this step or you may end up with mushy rice.
Use long grain white rice- brown rice will give you a much different result.
The liquid ratios matter. If you add too much, it can become mushy.