Spanish Tomato Rice
Spanish Tomato Rice is a flavorful one-pot dish combining seasoned ground beef, tender rice, and savory tomatoes. Its rich, slightly sweet, and tangy flavors make it a hearty meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a comforting taste of Spanish-inspired cuisine.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and bell pepper to the beef and cook until tender.
- Stir in canned tomatoes, uncooked rice, chili sauce, brown sugar, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Cover the mixture and simmer for 45 minutes until the rice is cooked and flavors meld.
- Serve hot, preferably with Mexican cornbread and fried beans.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or cumin to the mixture. If you don’t have ground beef, ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes. You can also use leftover cooked rice instead of uncooked; just reduce the cooking time accordingly. Make sure to adjust the liquid if using pre-cooked rice to prevent the dish from becoming too dry.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Spanish Tomato Rice hot, paired with a side of Mexican cornbread for a complete meal. Fried beans complement the dish nicely, adding protein and texture. You can also garnish with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for brightness. It pairs beautifully with other hearty beef recipes, making it a versatile addition to your dinner table.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to prevent drying and microwave until heated through, or reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spanish Tomato Rice contains roughly 349 calories, with 5g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (254% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 514mg per serving (22% 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 brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time. Increase the simmering time to about 60 minutes and ensure you have enough liquid to cook the brown rice fully. Adjust the water or broth accordingly to maintain the right consistency.
What can I substitute for chili sauce?
If you don’t have chili sauce, you can use salsa or a mix of ketchup and hot sauce to achieve a similar flavor. Adjust the quantity to taste, keeping in mind that different sauces have varying levels of sweetness and spice.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This Spanish Tomato Rice is perfect for meal prep. It stores well and the flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious when reheated. Divide it into individual portions for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
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).