Ben'S Mom'S Spanish Rice
A flavorful Spanish rice dish with garlic, onions, tomato sauce, and optional chicken and vegetables, perfect as a side or main for family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Saute garlic, onions, and salt until slightly browned.
- Add rice; continue to saute until rice is slightly browned.
- Remove from heat; add tomato sauce and water or broth.
- If desired, add cooked, cubed chicken and peas and carrots.
- Bring to a boil over high heat.
- Lower flame, cover, and simmer about 20 minutes or until water is absorbed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using chicken broth instead of water. If you prefer a spicier dish, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can substitute the rice with quinoa for a healthier option. If short on time, use pre-cooked rice to reduce cooking time. For added nutrition, toss in some spinach or bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
This Spanish rice pairs beautifully with Chicken A La Chardon for a complete meal. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for added texture and flavor. It also makes an excellent side dish for grilled meats or tacos. For an easy lunch, top it with a fried egg and a sprinkle of cilantro.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to the rice in a skillet and cover, heating over low until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave it for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ben'S Mom'S Spanish Rice contains roughly 1205 calories, with 25g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 73g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (61% of the Daily Value), protein (50% of the Daily Value), and iron (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of water. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when sautéing the garlic and onions. You can also sprinkle in some chili powder or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice requires a longer cooking time. You may need to increase the water and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes. Make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for best results.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).