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    Home » side dish

    Homemade Spanish Rice Box Recipe

    Published: Jan 5, 2025 by burntapple · This post may contain affiliate links · 1 Comment

    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

    Spanish rice is a versatile and delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of meals, from tacos to grilled chicken. Making your own Spanish rice box recipe at home is not only economical but also allows you to control the ingredients, avoiding unnecessary preservatives and additives. And it's homemade so it tastes amazing!

    A white bowl filled with red rice sits on a dark wooden table. A silver spoon is resting in the Spanish rice box recipe.

    Getting started

    It's time to get started making your Spanish rice box recipe! We love this recipe because it has a nice subtle flavor that compliments a variety of dishes. we love it as a side, or it pairs well with chicken, salad, tacos, or with some of our other Cinco de Mayo recipes.

    Jump to:
    • Getting started
    • Ingredients
    • Instructions
    • Substitutions
    • Variations
    • Equipment
    • Storage
    • Serving Ideas
    • FAQ
    • Related
    • Homemade Spanish Rice Box Recipe
    • Pairing

    Ingredients

    You need just a few ingredients to make this recipe:

    The image shows a collection of ingredients laid out on a wooden surface, likely for a Spanish rice dish. From left to right, we see:

A large bag of chopped onions
A small bowl containing spices, possibly including salt, pepper, and garlic powder
A can of tomato sauce
A large bag of long-grain white rice
    • Chopped onions
    • Long grain white rice
    • Tomato sauce
    • Spices-garlic powder, salt and pepper

    Instructions

    It's time to get this rice cooking! Just a few simple steps and it will be time to dig your fork into your fluffy rice!

    A white ceramic frying pan sits on a black stovetop. There is a small pool of oil in the center of the pan.
    1. Step 1: Heat oil in your pan on medium high heat
    A white ceramic frying pan sits on a black stovetop. The pan contains uncooked rice with chopped onions scattered on top.
    1. Step 2: Add your rice to the oil. Cook the rice until it becomes golden brown. Add in the onions, stir until clear.
    A white ceramic frying pan sits on a black stovetop. The pan contains a simmering mixture of tomato sauce, onions, and spices.
    1. Step 3: Add the tomato sauce, spices and water. Bring mixture to a boil. Lower the heat to low once mixture begins boiling.
    A white ceramic frying pan sits on a black stovetop. The pan contains cooked spanish rice
    1. Step 4: Place the lid on the pan and cook for approximately 20 minutes or until done. Stir then serve.

    Substitutions

    This recipe is perfect for a variety of different dietary preferences and needs. It's naturally gluten free, dairy free and is considered a vegan Spanish rice.

    Variations

    You can add in some diced tomatoes or even some vegetables like chopped bell peppers if you would like. To make the recipe spicier, you can add a pinch or two of chili powder or red pepper flakes to your Spanish rice box recipe.

    Equipment

    You will need a pan with a lid and a spoon for stirring.

    Storage

    Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to restore moisture.

    Serving Ideas

    • As a Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled chicken, beef, or fish.
    • In burritos: Use the rice as a filling in burritos with beans, cheese, and your choice of protein.
    • Taco night: Pair it with tacos to create a complete Mexican-inspired meal.
    • Rice bowls: Top the Spanish rice with guacamole, salsa, sour cream, and fresh vegetables for a satisfying rice bowl.

    FAQ

    Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

    Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice. However, brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid.

    What if I don’t have tomato sauce?

    Crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, or even tomato paste diluted with water can be used as substitutes. The flavor may vary slightly

    Can I double the recipe?

    Absolutely! Double all ingredients, but ensure you use a large enough pot to accommodate the rice as it cooks and expands.

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    A white bowl filled with red rice sits on a dark wooden table. A silver spoon is resting in the Spanish rice box recipe.

    Homemade Spanish Rice Box Recipe

    Traci Wennerholm
    Making your own Spanish rice box mix at home is simple and rewarding. Not only does it save money, but it also ensures a healthier alternative to store-bought options. Customize the recipe to suit your family’s taste preferences and enjoy a flavorful dish that complements a variety of meals.
    5 from 1 vote
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 5 minutes mins
    Cook Time 20 minutes mins
    0 minutes mins
    Total Time 25 minutes mins
    Course Side Dish
    Cuisine Mexican, spanish
    Servings 4 servings
    Calories 226 kcal

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 ¼ cup long grain white rice
    • ½ cup diced or chopped onions
    • 4 ounces tomato sauce
    • 3 cups water
    • ½ teaspoon each salt pepper, garlic powder
    • Splash of oil for pan

    Instructions
     

    • Heat a splash of oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
    • Add the rice and stir continuously until it becomes golden brown and fragrant.
    • Mix in the onions and saute until they turn translucent
    • Remove the pan from heat, then stir in the tomato sauce, spices, and water.
    • Return the pan to the stove and bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
    • Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
    • Fluff the rice with a fork, then serve immediately.

    Notes

    Rice can be stored for up to 4 days. Reheat to serve. 

    Nutrition

    Calories: 226kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 5gFat: 0.5gSaturated Fat: 0.1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.1gSodium: 147mgPotassium: 180mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 123IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg
    Keyword homemade spanish rice, spanish rice and quinoa, spanish rice box, vegan spanish rice
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

    Pairing

    These are my favorite dishes to serve with [this recipe]:

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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

      5 from 1 vote

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      Recipe Rating




    1. burntapple

      January 05, 2025 at 1:35 pm

      5 stars
      Easy and simple and tastes delicious!

      Reply

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    traci burntapple website featuring recipes with five ingredients or less

    Hi, I'm Traci! Cooking hasn't always come easy. I'm the burnt pancake on one side and perfect on the other pancake person that serves it to you with the pretty side up. I've learned to cook and make it look easy to my family and others. I'm now helping you save time & money with easy simple recipes with five ingredients or less!

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