Spanish Rice(Arroz Espanol)
Spanish Rice, or Arroz Espanol, is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the richness of tomato sauce with the warmth of spices like chili powder and cumin. Perfect as a side or a main dish, it delights with its colorful bell peppers and satisfying texture, making it ideal for family meals or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium skillet, sauté chopped green and red bell peppers in margarine until tender.
- Add tomato sauce, crushed chicken bouillon, and spices to the skillet.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and then simmer for 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the precooked rice.
- Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Mix well and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier dish, consider adding cooked chicken or ground beef. You can substitute the margarine with olive oil for a healthier option. If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or increase the chili powder. This dish is versatile, and you can use brown rice for a nutty flavor and added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Spanish Rice as a side dish to complement grilled chicken or beef dishes, such as Chicken Hacienda. It also pairs well with a fresh salad or guacamole. For a complete meal, consider adding black beans or corn to the rice. This dish can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it great for potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the rice to prevent it from drying out, then microwave for about 2-3 minutes or heat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spanish Rice(Arroz Espanol) contains roughly 767 calories, with 34g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (161% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 687mg per serving (30% 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 uncooked rice for this recipe?
It is recommended to use precooked rice for this recipe to ensure a quick and easy preparation. If using uncooked rice, you'll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amounts significantly, making it a different dish altogether.
What can I substitute for tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce, you can use crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes as a substitute. For a richer flavor, consider adding a bit of tomato paste along with water to maintain the sauce's consistency.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken bouillon cube or using a vegetable bouillon cube instead. This adjustment maintains the flavor while keeping the dish meat-free.
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).