Tips of Cooking Spanish Rice

Spanish rice is a popular side dish and can also be used in dishes such as burritos and jambalaya. Spanish rice is red in color; this is due to the tomatoes needed to make it. Sautéed onions, bell peppers and chicken stock add flavor and texture. Following a few instructions will ensure your Spanish rice is cooked properly and delicious.

Tips on Cooking Spanish Rice

• Always sauté the rice with oil before using it. This gives the rice a nutty taste and adds flavor to the dish.


• Use homemade chicken stock in the dish. This adds a richer taste to the Spanish rice than chicken stock purchased at a store or made from a bouillon.


• Garlic powder is commonly used but fresh garlic will give the best flavor to the rice.


• Add 1 tablespoon of water at a time to the rice to achieve the desired softness. 


• Canned tomatoes are a good substitute but fresh tomatoes will give the most flavor.


• You can add green chilies to the rice to give it an added flavor.


• Experiment with adding different peppers, such as banana peppers, or if you enjoy spicy foods, jalepeno peppers.