Spanish Rice—also known as Mexican Rice in many households across North America—is a staple side dish that elevates any meal with its bold color, rich flavor, and comforting texture. Not to be confused with Paella or other Spanish dishes from Spain, this tomato-infused rice dish is a key component of traditional Mexican cuisine and is beloved worldwide for its simplicity and versatility.
Golden, fluffy, and bursting with savory, slightly tangy tomato flavor, Spanish Rice pairs perfectly with tacos, enchiladas, grilled meats, beans, and more. Whether it’s served at a backyard fiesta or weeknight family dinner, this dish always brings warmth to the table.
What Is Spanish Rice?
Despite the name, Spanish Rice as we know it today is not actually from Spain, but rather a Mexican-American adaptation. In Spanish-speaking countries, it’s typically referred to as “Arroz Rojo” (red rice) or simply Mexican Rice.
It’s made by toasting white rice in oil until golden brown, then simmering it in a savory tomato-based broth along with onions, garlic, and spices like cumin and chili powder. The result is a deeply flavorful, aromatic rice that absorbs all the essence of the broth while maintaining a fluffy, tender texture.
Ingredients that Define Spanish Rice
The beauty of Spanish Rice lies in its balance of pantry-friendly ingredients and bold, savory character. Here’s what goes into the traditional version:
1. Long-Grain White Rice
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Long-grain rice (like Jasmine or Basmati) gives the best texture—light and fluffy, not sticky.
2. Tomato Element
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Tomato sauce, canned tomatoes, or even fresh tomatoes can be used.
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Some recipes blend tomatoes with onions and garlic for a homemade sofrito base.
3. Aromatics
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Chopped onions and garlic are sautéed to build a savory base.
️ 4. Seasonings
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Common seasonings include cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
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Optional: oregano, coriander, or a bay leaf for depth.
5. Broth or Stock
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Chicken or vegetable broth adds richness and extra flavor.
6. Oil or Fat
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Toasting the rice in oil or lard gives it a nutty flavor and helps prevent clumping.
7. Garnish
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Fresh cilantro, lime juice, or green onions add freshness at the end.
How to Make Classic Spanish Rice
This foolproof stovetop method delivers fluffy, flavorful rice every time.
Ingredients:
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1½ cups long-grain white rice
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2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or lard)
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½ cup finely chopped onion
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 cup tomato sauce (or 1½ cups blended tomatoes)
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2½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
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1 teaspoon cumin
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½ teaspoon chili powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh cilantro or lime wedges (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Toast the Rice
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the rice and toast it, stirring frequently, for about 5–7 minutes, or until the grains turn golden and fragrant. -
Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes, followed by the garlic. Stir and cook another minute until fragrant. -
Add Tomatoes and Spices
Stir in the tomato sauce, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until the rice is evenly coated in the tomato mixture. -
Pour in Broth and Simmer
Add the broth and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. -
Let it Rest
Remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5–10 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving. -
Garnish and Serve
Top with chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime for extra freshness.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Spanish Rice
Spanish Rice is incredibly versatile and works as a side or even the main dish with some add-ins. Here are a few delicious pairings:
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Tacos, Burritos & Enchiladas: A classic side dish in any Tex-Mex or Mexican meal.
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Grilled Chicken or Steak: Pairs beautifully with smoky, charred meats.
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Beans: Serve with refried or black beans for a hearty vegetarian plate.
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Stuffed Peppers: Mix Spanish Rice with ground meat and cheese for a delicious filling.
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Breakfast Burritos: Toss leftover rice into your morning wrap for a savory kick.
Variations and Add-Ins
Spanish Rice can easily be adapted to suit your tastes and dietary preferences:
Vegetable Spanish Rice
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Add peas, carrots, corn, or diced zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
Cheesy Spanish Rice
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Stir in shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese after cooking for a creamy twist.
️ Spicy Spanish Rice
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Add diced jalapeños, chipotle in adobo, or cayenne for a fiery kick.
Rice and Beans
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Add drained canned beans (black, pinto, or kidney) to turn this into a one-pot meal.
Brown Rice or Quinoa Version
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Sub brown rice (increase cook time) or quinoa (decrease broth slightly) for a whole-grain option.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
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Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
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Freezer: Spanish Rice freezes well. Cool completely and freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.
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Reheat: Rewarm in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to rehydrate.
Spanish Rice vs. Mexican Rice vs. Paella
People often use the terms interchangeably, but here are some distinctions:
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Spanish Rice (U.S.): Tomato-based, toasted rice, fluffy texture.
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Mexican Rice: Essentially the same dish, more commonly used in Mexico and by those wanting cultural accuracy.
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Spanish Paella: A dish from Spain using short-grain rice, saffron, and proteins like seafood or chicken.
Final Thoughts
Spanish Rice is more than just a side dish—it’s a canvas for creativity and a cultural bridge between traditional Mexican flavors and modern mealtime convenience. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or throwing a backyard fiesta, Spanish Rice brings bold color and comforting flavor to the plate.
It’s budget-friendly, endlessly customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Once you master the basics, you’ll find yourself making it again and again—sometimes as a side, sometimes as the star of the show.
