Debbie's Spanish Rice

Transport your taste buds to the heart of Spain with Debbie's Spanish Rice, a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that's perfect as a side or a stand-alone meal. Made with fluffy long-grain white rice, simmered in rich tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, and seasoned with smoky chili powder and earthy cumin, this recipe delivers bold, authentic flavors in every bite. Sautéed onion, garlic, and red bell pepper add layers of aromatic depth, while a splash of chicken or vegetable broth keeps the dish irresistibly moist and hearty. Toasting the rice before simmering enhances its nutty flavor and ensures perfect texture, while a sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a bright finish. Quick to prepare in just 40 minutes and serving up to six people, this one-pot wonder is as convenient as it is delicious. Whether paired with tacos, grilled chicken, or enjoyed on its own, Debbie's Spanish Rice is your go-to recipe for a comforting, restaurant-quality dish made right at home.

Nutriscore Rating: 69/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups long-grain white rice
• 3 cups water
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1.5 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon pepper
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Directions

Step 1

In a large, deep skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Step 2

Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion and diced red bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.

Step 3

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.

Step 4

Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir well to coat it with the oil. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is lightly toasted.

Step 5

Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juices), chicken or vegetable broth, and water. Stir to combine.

Step 6

Add chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to incorporate the spices evenly into the mixture.

Step 7

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet or pot with a tight-fitting lid.

Step 8

Simmer the rice for 20-25 minutes, or until the liquid has been fully absorbed and the rice is tender. Avoid lifting the lid while the rice cooks, as this will release steam.

Step 9

Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat. Let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 10

Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, if desired. Serve warm as a side dish or enjoy on its own.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2319.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1046.7

Total Fat 49.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 7.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.0g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 4501.3mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 131.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 16.6g	0%
Total Sugars 25.7g
Protein 18.9g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 314.8mg	0%
Iron 9.3mg	0%
Potassium 1415.2mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 42.6%

Protein: 7.2%

Carbs: 50.2%