Authentic Spanish Rice Recipe

Spanish rice, also known as Mexican rice or arroz rojo, is a classic, comforting side dish that brings warmth and flavor to your table. Its beautiful reddish hue, aromatic seasonings, and fluffy texture make it a staple in Latin American cuisine. 

Whether served alongside tacos, enchiladas, grilled meats, or beans, this flavorful rice transforms a simple meal into a fiesta of taste.

This easy Spanish rice recipe is cooked with tomato sauce, garlic, onions, and spices, delivering restaurant-quality results at home. The secret lies in toasting the rice before simmering it in a rich tomato broth infusing each grain with irresistible depth.

Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner or planning a festive spread, this dish delivers bold flavor, ease, and versatility. 

Let’s dive into the savory journey of making the best homemade Spanish rice from scratch!

❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

🥄 What Do You Need to Prepare Spanish Rice? (Ingredients)

Here’s everything you need to make this authentic Spanish rice recipe:

Ingredients:

Note: Always rinse your rice before cooking to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.

🍳 How to Make Easy Spanish Rice Step-by-Step ?

Authentic Spanish Rice Recipe

👩‍🍳 Step 1: Rinse and Drain the Rice

Place the rice in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain thoroughly. This step removes excess starch and keeps the rice fluffy.

🔥 Step 2: Toast the Rice

In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the drained rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 5–7 minutes until it turns golden brown and fragrant.

Toasting enhances the nutty flavor and adds depth.

🧅 Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add the chopped onions to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until aromatic. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

🍅 Step 4: Add Tomato Sauce and Spices

Stir in the tomato sauce, cumin, chili powder (if using), and salt. Mix well to coat the rice. Let it cook for 2–3 minutes until the tomato mixture is slightly thickened and absorbed into the rice.

🫕 Step 5: Pour in the Broth and Simmer

Add the chicken broth and stir. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot tightly and simmer for 18–20 minutes or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

🧘 Step 6: Rest and Fluff

Remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5–10 minutes. This helps the grains firm up and absorb excess moisture. Fluff with a fork.

🌿 Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice before serving for extra brightness and flavor.

🌀 Variations

Spanish rice is incredibly versatile. Try these variations for a twist:

Spanish rice can also be cooked in a rice cooker or Instant Pot—just toast the rice first and follow appliance instructions. You can also use brown rice but increase the cooking time and liquid.

This recipe is a great base for experimentation. Don’t hesitate to customize based on your preference or what’s available in your kitchen.

🧑‍🍳 Cooking Note

Cooking Spanish rice is as much about technique as ingredients. The key step—toasting the rice—develops rich flavor and prevents sogginess. Make sure the rice is golden and smells nutty before adding any liquid.

Another tip: use warm broth to avoid sudden temperature changes that can affect texture. Always simmer on low and avoid lifting the lid during cooking, as this can release steam and slow down the process.

The rice should rest after cooking, which lets it absorb any remaining liquid and prevents stickiness. Fluffing with a fork rather than stirring also helps maintain individual grains.

For a more intense tomato flavor, use fire-roasted tomatoes or even a touch of tomato paste. Always taste before serving and adjust salt accordingly broths can vary in salt content.

Spanish rice is forgiving but benefits from attention to detail. With a little care, this dish can rival anything you’d find in a restaurant.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Spanish rice is a perfect side dish for countless main meals. Here are some delicious ideas:

• 🌮 Tacos – Chicken, beef, or veggie tacos paired with Spanish rice = heavenly.
• 🥩 Grilled Meats – Serve alongside grilled steak, chicken fajitas, or pork chops.
• 🌯 Burrito Bowls – Use as a base for DIY burrito bowls with beans, salsa, and guacamole.
• 🫓 Quesadillas – A spoonful of Spanish rice on the side adds flavor and heartiness.
• 🫘 Beans and Rice Combo – Pair with black or pinto beans for a filling vegetarian meal.
• 🥗 Mexican Salad – Use cold leftover rice as a topping for hearty salads.

You can also serve it with enchiladas, chimichangas, or use it as a stuffing for bell peppers. Spanish rice truly complements nearly every Mexican or Tex-Mex dish.

🧠 Helpful Tips

These tips will ensure your Spanish rice turns out light, fluffy, and flavorful every time. Once you get the hang of it, this dish becomes a reliable favorite for family dinners and parties alike.

🌟 Tips for the Best Spanish Rice

To make the best Spanish rice, focus on three things: toasting, liquid balance, and heat control.

Bonus tip: Use a pot with a tight-fitting lid. Steam is crucial to cook the rice evenly. And always fluff with a fork, never stir with a spoon.

With these easy practices, your Spanish rice will always impress light, savory, and utterly irresistible.

⏰ Timing Overview

🧾 Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

Values may vary depending on ingredients and serving size.

❓ FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but increase the cooking time to 40–45 minutes and add ½ cup more broth.

Is Spanish rice the same as Mexican rice?

They’re often used interchangeably. "Spanish rice" is a North American term, but in Mexico, it's usually called "arroz rojo."

Can I freeze Spanish rice?

Absolutely! Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat with a splash of water.

How can I make it less spicy?

Skip the chili powder and use mild tomato sauce for a kid-friendly version.

Can I use canned diced tomatoes instead of sauce?

Yes! Blend them before adding or leave them chunky for texture.

🎉 Conclusion

This easy Spanish rice recipe brings authentic flavor and texture with minimal effort. From taco nights to festive feasts, it’s a must-have side that pairs well with almost any Mexican dish. 

By following a few simple steps like toasting the rice and using a well-seasoned broth you can create a restaurant-worthy dish that’s packed with taste and satisfaction.

Make it once, and you’ll keep coming back to this recipe for years. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, Spanish rice is your gateway to mastering delicious, comforting meals with a Latin flair. 

¡Buen provecho!