Spanish rice recipe | Bring the flavors of spain to your table

Spanish rice recipe

As a chef, few dishes embody the essence of Spanish cuisine like a classic Spanish rice recipe. In Spain, rice is much more than a side dish; it's often the star of the meal, bringing family and friends together around a flavorful, vibrant creation.

This particular spanish rice recipe is one I love to share with others because it’s warm, comforting, and bursting with bold flavors that remind me of home. Whether served as a main dish or alongside other favorites, it always brings joy and a touch of Spanish soul to the table.

Now, let me share this easy, homemade Spanish rice recipe so you can bring a bit of Spain’s culinary magic to your own kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups of long-grain rice

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 1/2 cups of diced tomatoes (or one 14.5 oz can)

• 3 cups of chicken or vegetable broth

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads (optional, for authentic Spanish flavor)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparation 

1. Prepare the aromatics: Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion and diced bell pepper. Sauté these ingredients for about 5 minutes, or until they become soft and slightly golden. The aroma of the onion and bell pepper cooking will start to fill your kitchen, setting the stage for this flavorful dish.

2. Add garlic and rice: Next, add the minced garlic to the pan and stir for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Then, add the rice to the pan, stirring it to coat the grains with the oil and vegetable mixture. Toast the rice for about 2-3 minutes, which helps it absorb the flavors and gives it a slightly nutty taste. This step is essential for building a depth of flavor in the final dish.

3. Add tomatoes and spices: Now, add the diced tomatoes to the pan, along with the smoked paprika, ground cumin, and saffron threads (if using). Stir everything together to ensure the spices and tomatoes are evenly mixed with the rice. The smoked paprika will give the dish a beautiful red color and a rich, smoky flavor that is characteristic of Spanish recipes.

4. Pour in the broth: Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the rice cook for about 20 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during this time, as it can release the steam needed for the rice to cook evenly.

5. Check and fluff the rice: After 20 minutes, check to see if the rice has absorbed all the liquid. If it hasn’t, let it cook for another 5 minutes with the lid on. Once the rice is tender and has absorbed the flavorful broth, remove it from the heat and let it sit for 5 minutes with the lid on.

6. Garnish and serve: Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains, then garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and added flavor. Serve this delightful Spanish rice as a main course, or pair it with grilled meats, seafood, or roasted vegetables.

This Spanish rice recipe is best enjoyed in the company of loved ones. The rich flavors and comforting aroma make it a perfect dish for family dinners, gatherings, or any occasion where you want to bring a taste of Spain to your table. Bon appétit, or as we say in Spain, ¡Buen provecho!