Mexican rice (also known as “Spanish” rice) is a savory rice dish flavored with tomatoes and spices. Mexican rice holds up well on its own and makes a great accompaniment to beef, chicken, fish, tacos, enchiladas…the list goes on! It goes well with tons of different dishes and is pretty easy to make. You start by toasting the rice in a saute pan. Toasting it first enhances the flavor and is considered an essential step. I would recommend using homemade chicken or vegetable stock to give it an extra boost of nutrients and flavor!
Homemade Spanish Rice
(Makes 4-6 servings)
Printable Version
Ingredients:
- 2-3 tbsp butter
- 1 yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups rice
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable stock (add up to 4 cups depending on instructions on rice package)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup finely diced tomatoes, strained fully
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Directions:
- In a saute pan, melt the butter and stir in the rice. Cook on medium high heat until browned, about 7 minutes. Stir occasionally.
- Add the diced onion and garlic and cook until the onions are soft, about 7-8 minutes.
- In another pan, pour in the chicken stock, cover and bring to a simmer.
- Add the tomato paste, diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, oregano, and salt to the rice mixture.
- Transfer the rice mixture into the stock. Bring back to a simmer at and then turn down the heat. Cover the pot and cook until the rice is fully cooked, about 20 minutes.