Cris Wolfe'S Spanish Rice
A flavorful Spanish rice dish featuring tender rice, tomatoes, peas, and aromatic garlic and onions, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook onion in oil until transparent.
- Add minced garlic and stir about a minute.
- Add tomatoes to the mixture.
- Dissolve chicken bouillon cubes in 3 1/2 cups boiling water.
- Bring the water to a boil.
- Add rice and bring to a boil again.
- Lower heat to low and cover with a lid.
- Cook for 20 minutes.
- If rice is done and excess liquid remains, lift lid to check.
- If rice is not tender, leave lid on and cook longer.
- About 15 minutes into cooking, add the frozen peas on top of the rice, do not stir in until serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh garlic instead of minced, or sauté some diced bell peppers along with the onions. If you want a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also substitute the long grain rice with brown rice, but adjust the cooking time accordingly as brown rice typically takes longer to cook. This dish could also be made vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken bouillon.
Serving Suggestions
Cris Wolfe's Spanish Rice is delicious served as a side dish with grilled meats or as a base for a hearty meal. Consider pairing it with Tamale Chicken or serving it alongside Fat-Free Fajitas for a complete dinner. Garnish with fresh cilantro or lime wedges for added brightness. This dish also works well as a filling for burritos or tacos, making it versatile for your Mexican recipes.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the Spanish rice cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the rice and warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cris Wolfe'S Spanish Rice contains roughly 1111 calories, with 20g protein, 133g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (57% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), and protein (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 824mg per serving (36% 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 Spanish rice ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Spanish rice a day in advance. Just follow the recipe, allow it to cool, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat it on the stovetop or microwave, adding a little water if necessary to prevent it from drying out.
What can I substitute for chicken bouillon cubes?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, vegetable broth can be used in place of chicken bouillon cubes. You can also use homemade chicken stock for a richer flavor. Adjust the seasoning accordingly, as store-bought broth may have varying salt levels.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of chili powder while cooking the onions. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side, allowing guests to customize the spice level to their liking. For a smoky flavor, consider adding smoked paprika.
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).