Jean'S Spanish Rice
Jean's Spanish Rice is a flavorful side dish featuring rice cooked with garlic, cumin, and tomato sauce, perfect for Mexican-inspired meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the rice in oil or bacon drippings.
- Add water, garlic, cumin, and tomato sauce.
- When it starts to boil, cover and reduce heat.
- Simmer for 15 minutes.
- Do not uncover during cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider using chicken broth instead of water. If you want a smokier taste, add a bit of smoked paprika. To adjust the heat level, you can reduce the hot sauce or substitute it with a milder salsa. Ensure not to stir the rice while it simmers, as this can make it gummy. This recipe pairs wonderfully with dishes from Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Jean's Spanish Rice is delicious served alongside grilled chicken or tacos. Consider pairing it with tortillas for tacos or a fresh green salad. For a hearty meal, serve it with beans or a side of Southwestern Chili Sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro or lime for added brightness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Spanish rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to prevent drying out and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until heated through. Alternatively, reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of oil if necessary.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jean'S Spanish Rice contains roughly 968 calories, with 10g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 72g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan by using vegetable oil instead of bacon drippings and omitting the hot sauce if it contains animal products. The rice will still be flavorful with the garlic, cumin, and tomato sauce.
Can I add vegetables to this rice dish?
Absolutely! You can incorporate diced bell peppers, onions, or frozen peas during the cooking process. Just sauté the veggies with the rice before adding the liquid for added flavor and texture.
What can I serve with Spanish rice?
Spanish rice is versatile; it pairs well with a variety of proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or vegetarian options like black beans. It also complements dishes like enchiladas or burritos, making it a perfect side for a Mexican-themed meal.
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).