Portuguese Spiced Rice

Infused with bold Mediterranean flavors, Portuguese Spiced Rice is a fragrant, one-pot side dish that elevates any meal. This flavorful recipe combines fluffy long-grain white rice with a rich blend of warm spices like paprika, cumin, and turmeric, balanced by the subtle heat of optional cayenne pepper. Simmered with a savory mix of chicken or vegetable broth, crushed tomatoes, and aromatic onions and garlic, this dish is as comforting as it is vibrant. Finished with a fresh parsley garnish, it pairs perfectly with grilled meats, seafood, or roasted vegetables. Quick and easy to prepare in just 40 minutes, Portuguese Spiced Rice is a versatile, crowd-pleasing addition to your dinner table. Ideal for lovers of global cuisine, it’s a must-try recipe for anyone seeking a hearty and aromatic rice dish.

Nutriscore Rating: 66/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 1.5 cups uncooked long-grain white rice
• 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup crushed tomatoes
• 1 leaf bay leaf
• 2 teaspoons ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 0.5 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan or deep skillet over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.

Step 3

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4

Add the uncooked rice to the pan and stir well to coat it in the oil and aromatics. Toast the rice for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.

Step 5

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and the crushed tomatoes, and stir to combine.

Step 6

Add the bay leaf, paprika, cumin, turmeric, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt. Stir well to distribute the spices evenly.

Step 7

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and let the rice simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.

Step 8

Remove the pan from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 9

Discard the bay leaf, fluff the rice gently with a fork, and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 10

Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1440.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1659.8

Total Fat 47.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 7.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.0g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 4978.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 276.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 11.7g	0%
Total Sugars 14.1g
Protein 31.3g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 240.4mg	0%
Iron 9.5mg	0%
Potassium 1370.5mg	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: 25.7%

Protein: 7.6%

Carbs: 66.7%