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Flavorful Tomato Paste Spanish Rice Recipe

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A quick and easy homemade Spanish rice side dish featuring toasted rice, rich tomato paste, and fragrant spices for a comforting and flavorful meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups (285 grams) long-grain white rice, rinsed and drained
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups (720 ml) chicken broth or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • A handful fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Fresh lime juice from half a lime (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear. Drain well.
  2. Heat olive oil in a medium to large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
  4. Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and toast, stirring frequently, until the rice turns light golden brown (about 5-7 minutes).
  5. Stir in tomato paste, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
  6. Slowly pour in the broth, stir once to combine, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  7. Reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer gently for 18-20 minutes without lifting the lid.
  8. Turn off heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 5-10 minutes.
  9. Remove lid and fluff rice with a fork. Stir in fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro or parsley if using. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Notes

Rinsing the rice is essential for fluffy, separate grains. Toasting the rice adds a nutty flavor and prevents mushiness. Avoid stirring once broth is added to allow even cooking. Letting the rice rest after cooking improves texture. If rice is too wet, dry it on low heat uncovered; if too dry, add a splash of broth and cover briefly.

Nutrition

Keywords: Spanish rice, tomato paste, easy side dish, homemade rice, quick rice recipe, flavorful rice, toasted rice, comfort food

Find it online: https://zorbmeal.com/flavorful-tomato-paste-spanish-rice-recipe-easy-homemade-side-dish/