Easy Spanish Rice in Rice Cooker – Flavorful Fiesta Recipe

There’s something magical about a warm bowl of Spanish rice in rice cooker, isn’t there? Imagine fluffy grains dancing in a vibrant tomato sauce, each bite bursting with flavor. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will make your neighbors question if they’ve been invited to a fiesta. You can almost hear the maracas shaking and feel the salsa rhythms as you prepare this delightful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from Taco Tuesdays to cozy family dinners.

Every time I make Spanish rice in my trusty rice cooker, it reminds me of summer barbecues at my abuela’s house. She would serve up mountains of fluffy rice alongside her famous tacos, and we’d devour it all while laughing and sharing stories. It’s more than just food; it’s a hearty embrace from the past, wrapped in a deliciously spiced blanket. If you’re ready to take your taste buds on a joyful journey, let’s dive into this flavorful recipe that promises to impress!

I remember the first time I served this Spanish rice at a family gathering; everyone went back for seconds and thirds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Long-Grain Rice: Opt for long-grain rice for fluffy texture; jasmine or basmati works wonders too.

• Tomato Sauce: Use quality tomato sauce for rich flavor; avoid overly processed brands if possible.

• Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; always sauté until translucent for the best flavor.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic is key—nothing beats the aroma when it’s sautéed!

• Bell Peppers: Red or green bell peppers add color and crunch; chop them finely for even cooking.

• Vegetable Broth: Substitute water with vegetable broth for added depth; homemade is fantastic if you have it.

• Cumin and Paprika: These spices provide warmth and smokiness; adjust quantities based on your spice tolerance.

• Salt and Pepper: Basic but essential seasonings that enhance all flavors beautifully.

• Cilantro (optional): Fresh cilantro adds brightness; sprinkle it on top before serving for a fresh touch.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

**Prep Your Ingredients**: Start by measuring out all the ingredients. Rinse the long-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.

**Sauté Aromatics**: In your rice cooker (set it to ‘cook’), add some olive oil and toss in chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook until fragrant—about 3-4 minutes—until they turn soft and delectable.

**Add Veggies**: Stir in diced bell peppers with the onions for an extra layer of flavor. Let them cook down until tender—approximately 5 minutes—while enjoying those delightful aromas filling your kitchen.

**Combine Everything**: Pour in rinsed rice along with tomato sauce, vegetable broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir so that all ingredients mingle happily together.

**Cook It Up**: Close the lid of your rice cooker and set it to ‘cook.’ Wait patiently while the magic happens—it usually takes around 20-25 minutes depending on your model.

**Fluff & Serve**: Once cooked, let it sit for 5 minutes before opening the lid. Fluff with a fork and sprinkle chopped cilantro on top before serving. Your Spanish rice is now ready to steal the show!

Enjoy every bite of this easy-to-make Spanish rice in rice cooker that not only tantalizes taste buds but also brings joy to every meal!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic in the rice cooker before adding rice, broth, and spices for maximum flavor infusion.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to mix in diced bell peppers, corn, or black beans to elevate the dish’s texture and taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave until hot.

The first time I made Spanish rice in a rice cooker, my friends were convinced I had taken a culinary course! They loved it so much that it became a regular request for our get-togethers.

FAQ

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but adjust cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook than white varieties.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper for an extra kick of heat and flavor.

What can I serve with Spanish rice?

This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, tacos, or even as a filling for burritos.

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Spanish Rice in a Rice Cooker

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Experience the vibrant flavors of this easy Spanish rice recipe, perfect for any occasion. Cooked in a rice cooker, this dish features fluffy long-grain rice enveloped in a rich tomato sauce, complemented by sautéed onions, garlic, and bell peppers. With its colorful presentation and delightful aroma, this Spanish rice will elevate your meals from Taco Tuesdays to family gatherings. Enjoy it as a versatile side or a hearty base for your favorite proteins.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Spanish

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup bell peppers (red or green), diced
• 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
• Fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until clear to remove excess starch.
2. In the rice cooker set to 'cook', heat olive oil and sauté onions and garlic for about 3-4 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add diced bell peppers and cook for another 5 minutes until tender.
4. Stir in rinsed rice, tomato sauce, vegetable broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
5. Close the lid and set the cooker to 'cook' for about 20-25 minutes.
6. Once done, let it sit for an additional 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg