If you’re looking for a side dish that pairs perfectly with BBQ, Spanish rice is a fantastic option. This dish has a savory, slightly tangy flavor with a beautiful, vibrant color that adds a pop to your plate. It’s the ideal accompaniment to grilled meats like chicken, ribs, or steak. Simple yet packed with flavor, this rice is seasoned with tomatoes, onions, and spices to bring out the best of your BBQ feast.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (or 2 fresh tomatoes, diced)
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Lime wedges (optional)
Instructions:
- Rinse the Rice: Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky when cooked.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large saucepan or skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, making sure it doesn’t burn.
- Toast the Rice: Stir in the rice and cook it with the onions and garlic for 2-3 minutes, until the rice becomes slightly golden. This step adds depth of flavor to the rice.
- Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and blend with the spices.
- Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Once it’s simmering, cover the pan with a lid, lower the heat to low, and let it cook for about 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed.
- Fluff and Serve: Once cooked, remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.
This Spanish rice is deliciously seasoned and complements any BBQ spread. It’s a crowd-pleaser, and the perfect dish to balance out the smoky, savory flavors of your grilled meats. Enjoy.
