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The BEST Easy One-Pot Spanish Rice | Authentic Mexican Side Dish

A mound of bright orange Spanish rice, garnished with green onions, served on a white plate.
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Learn how to make truly fluffy, flavorful Spanish Rice (Arroz Rojo) in just one pot. This easy recipe tastes just like your favorite Mexican restaurant side dish and is perfect for tacos or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

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  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 1/2 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 cup frozen peas and carrots mix (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a medium, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the rice to the hot oil. Stir constantly and toast the rice for 5 to 7 minutes until the grains turn light golden brown. This step is key for fluffy Spanish Rice.
  3. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook for 3 minutes until softened.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Do not let the garlic burn.
  5. Pour in the tomato sauce, chicken broth, salt, cumin, and oregano. Stir everything together well.
  6. Bring the liquid to a boil over medium-high heat.
  7. Once boiling, reduce the heat to the lowest setting, cover the pot tightly with a lid, and simmer undisturbed for 18 minutes.
  8. After 18 minutes, remove the pot from the heat. If using, gently stir in the frozen peas and carrots.
  9. Keep the pot covered and let the rice steam off the heat for an additional 10 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time.
  10. Fluff the Spanish Rice gently with a fork before serving.

Notes

  • Toasting the rice properly is the secret to restaurant-style texture. Watch it closely so it browns evenly without burning.
  • For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
  • If you prefer a spicier kick, add 1/4 teaspoon of chili powder with the other spices.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://flavorvista.com/easy-one-pot-spanish-rice-recipe/