There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Grandma's Spanish rice, a dish that evokes cherished memories of family gatherings and heartwarming meals. This isn't your average side dish; it's a vibrant tapestry of flavors, a perfect blend of tender rice, savory tomatoes, and fragrant spices. Each grain is cooked to fluffy perfection, absorbing the rich sauce until it's bursting with irresistible taste. Forget those bland, watery rice recipes; this is the real deal, passed down through generations and perfected over countless family dinners. My grandmother's recipe is a testament to simple ingredients transformed into culinary magic.
This authentic recipe captures the essence of her culinary expertise, ensuring you achieve the same incredible results in your own kitchen. Ready to experience the magic? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions that will guide you to creating the most delicious Spanish rice you've ever tasted.
Tools Needed
- Dutch oven (cast iron preferred)
Ingredients
- Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Rice: 3 ¾ cups
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Oregano: a pinch
- Cumin: ½ teaspoon
- Chicken Bouillon (Maggi brand recommended): 1 tablespoon
- Salt: 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
- Tomato Sauce: ⅓ cup
- Chicken Broth (homemade recommended): 2 cups + ½ cup (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sauté Rice and Aromatics
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add 3 ¾ cups of rice and spread it evenly. Brown the rice, stirring frequently, until it's a nice golden color. This step takes time and careful attention to prevent burning; it might take longer than the cooking time itself.
- Add ⅓ cup of tomato sauce and stir to sauté briefly.
- The speaker often adds spices after the tomato sauce.
Step 2. Simmer Rice in Broth
- Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth (homemade is preferred). Add more broth (about ½ cup) if needed to ensure proper cooking.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 10 minutes without stirring.
- After 10 minutes, check if the rice is cooked. If not, cover and continue simmering until done. Do not stir during cooking.
Step 3. Rest and Serve
- Once cooked, remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes to finish cooking with the residual heat.
Read more: Homemade Chalupas Recipe: Easy & Delicious Mexican Street Food
Tips
- Using powdered spices allows for consistent measurements and flavor in each batch compared to fresh ingredients.
- A cast iron Dutch oven cooks rice quickly due to its heat retention properties. A thinner pan will require a slightly longer cooking time.
- Don't stir the rice while it's cooking to maintain fluffiness and avoid mushiness. Stir only after cooking.
- Adjust the amount of water/broth according to your observation of the rice's cooking progress and consistency.
Nutrition
- Calories: 670
- Fat: 12g
- Carbs: 135g
- Protein: 18g
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of rice?
While long-grain white rice is traditional, you can experiment with medium-grain rice. It might require slightly less liquid.
2. How can I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to the sofrito for extra heat.
So there you have it – Grandma's secret to perfectly fluffy and flavorful Spanish rice. This recipe is a true testament to the power of simple ingredients and a little bit of love. Now go forth and create a culinary masterpiece that will impress your family and friends!