Print

Fluffy Spanish Rice Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 98 reviews

This Fluffy Spanish Rice recipe offers a vibrant and delicious side dish made with jasmine rice, fresh tomatoes, onion, and chicken bouillon. The rice is soaked to remove excess starch, fried until lightly golden to build flavor, and then simmered in a blended tomato base for a tender, fluffy texture. Perfect as a flavorful accompaniment to Mexican meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Rice Preparation

  • 1 cup jasmine rice, soaked in cold water for 20 minutes, then drained

Tomato Base

  • 2 fresh tomatoes
  • ¼ white onion
  • 2 tablespoons chicken bouillon powder or 2 bouillon cubes
  • Salt to taste
  • ½ cup water for blending

Cooking

  • 2 tablespoons oil for frying the rice
  • 2 cups water for cooking

Instructions

  1. Soak the Rice: Rinse 1 cup of jasmine rice in cold water, then soak for 20 minutes to remove excess starch and ensure the rice cooks fluffy and non-mushy. Drain thoroughly before using.
  2. Make the Tomato Base: In a blender, combine 2 fresh tomatoes, ¼ white onion, 2 tablespoons chicken bouillon powder or cubes, salt to taste, and ½ cup water. Blend until smooth to create a flavorful liquid base for the rice.
  3. Fry the Rice: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Add the drained rice and stir occasionally, frying it until the rice grains turn a light tan or golden color, about 5–7 minutes. This step enhances the flavor and texture of the rice.
  4. Add Tomato Mixture and Cook: Pour the blended tomato mixture into the pot with the rice. Wait until it reaches a gentle boil, then add 2 cups of water, stir once, and cover the pot tightly with a lid. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook undisturbed for 20 minutes to allow the rice to absorb flavors and cook evenly.
  5. Let It Rest: After cooking, turn off the heat and let the rice sit covered and undisturbed for 10 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to finish cooking in its own steam, resulting in the perfect fluffy texture.
  6. Fluff and Serve: Remove the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork. Serve hot as a side dish or alongside your favorite Mexican entrees.

Notes

  • Soaking the rice beforehand is crucial for fluffy, separate grains.
  • Fresh tomatoes are essential for authentic flavor; avoid canned tomatoes.
  • Do not lift the lid during cooking or resting to trap steam and ensure proper cooking.
  • Frying the rice before cooking builds nutty flavor and improves texture.
  • Adjust salt level based on the saltiness of your chicken bouillon.

Keywords: Spanish rice, fluffy rice, Mexican side dish, jasmine rice, tomato rice, savory rice

Find it online: https://yumwithmia.com/fluffy-spanish-rice-recipe/