Spanish Brown Rice
A hearty Spanish-inspired brown rice dish loaded with peppers, onions, and bold chili flavors, perfect for a flavorful vegetarian meal or a comforting family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown garlic, rice, and onion in olive oil.
- Add chopped bell pepper and cook until tender.
- Add chili powder, crushed tomatoes, and water.
- Bring to a boil and reduce heat to low.
- Cook until all liquid is absorbed and rice is tender, about 45 minutes.
- Check after 25 minutes and add more water if needed.
- Serve with grated Cheddar cheese on the side, adding cheese just before eating.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika alongside the chili powder. If you want a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for the water. You can also use brown basmati or jasmine rice for a slightly different texture. Be sure to rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch and improve the final dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Spanish brown rice as a main dish or as a side to grilled chicken or fish. It pairs beautifully with grated Cheddar cheese on top, adding a creamy texture. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables. Feel free to browse more vegetarian recipes for additional side options.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the rice and cover it with a lid in a pot over low heat, or microwave it for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This helps to restore moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spanish Brown Rice contains roughly 614 calories, with 19g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (130% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (48% of the Daily Value), and protein (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1075mg per serving (47% 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 use white rice instead of brown rice?
Yes, you can use white rice, but cooking times will differ. White rice typically cooks faster, so reduce the simmering time to about 20-25 minutes. Additionally, be mindful to adjust the water amount, as white rice usually requires less liquid.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper during cooking. You can also serve the rice with hot sauce or salsa on the side for those who enjoy more spice. Adjust according to your taste preference.
What can I substitute for crushed tomatoes?
If you don't have crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes or tomato sauce can work as substitutes. For a richer flavor, try using fire-roasted tomatoes. You could also blend fresh tomatoes if you prefer a homemade option.
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).