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

A close-up of a white bowl filled with bright orange Spanish rice mixed with green peas and diced carrots.
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Make authentic, flavorful Spanish Rice (Arroz Rojo) using this easy one-pot method. This recipe yields fluffy, perfectly seasoned rice that tastes just like your favorite Mexican restaurant side dish, ideal for tacos or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a medium saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the long-grain white rice to the hot oil. Stir constantly and toast the rice for 5 to 7 minutes until it turns 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, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
  6. Bring the liquid to a boil. Once boiling, stir in the frozen peas and carrots mix, if using.
  7. Reduce the heat to the lowest setting, cover the pot tightly with a lid, and simmer for 18 to 20 minutes without lifting the lid. This ensures the rice cooks evenly.
  8. Remove the pot from the heat and let it stand, covered, for an additional 10 minutes. Do not remove the lid during this resting time.
  9. Fluff the Spanish Rice gently with a fork before serving.

Notes

  • For the most authentic flavor, use good quality chicken broth.
  • Toasting the rice properly is essential for achieving a non-sticky, fluffy texture.
  • If you prefer a spicier dish, add 1/4 teaspoon of chili powder with the other spices.
  • This recipe is a great base for Restaurant Style Rice; add a small diced bell pepper with the onion for extra flavor.

Nutrition

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