Name: Homemade Spanish Rice (w/ Instant Pot Option)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 Tbsp avocado oil; 0.5 yellow onion (finely chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup white rice; 1 Tbsp chili powder; 2 tsp dried basil; 2 cups chicken broth or water; 2 Tbsp butter or ghee; 2 Tbsp tomato paste; 3 Tbsp salsa (optional)

Jump to Recipe Save it for Later

Homemade Spanish Rice is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor and color to your table. Whether you’re serving it as a side with tacos, burritos, or grilled meats, this rice dish is sure to be a hit with everyone. With the option to make it in an Instant Pot, you can enjoy perfectly cooked rice without the fuss. Let’s dive into the details of making this delicious and versatile Spanish Rice.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This Homemade Spanish Rice is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly flavorful. The combination of spices, fresh ingredients, and the richness from butter or ghee makes it a favorite for family dinners. Plus, with the Instant Pot option, you can have it ready in no time, making weeknight meals a breeze. It’s adaptable, meaning you can add your favorite ingredients like bell peppers or corn, and it keeps well for leftovers. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again.

What to Buy

To make this delicious Homemade Spanish Rice, here’s a comprehensive list of ingredients you’ll need:

2 Tbsp avocado oil
1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup white rice
1 Tbsp chili powder
2 tsp dried basil
2 cups chicken broth or water
2 Tbsp butter or ghee
2 Tbsp tomato paste
3 Tbsp salsa (optional)

Make sure to gather all these ingredients before you start cooking, so you can enjoy a smooth preparation process.

Before You Start: Equipment

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience much smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

Instant Pot or a medium-sized pot
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Chopping board and knife
Serving dish

With these tools on hand, you’ll be ready to create your Homemade Spanish Rice effortlessly.

How to Prepare Homemade Spanish Rice (w/ Instant Pot Option)

Let’s get cooking! You have two options: the traditional stovetop method or the Instant Pot. Here’s how to do both:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In your Instant Pot, set it to the sauté mode. Add 2 tablespoons of avocado oil, then toss in the finely chopped yellow onion. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Toast the Rice

Add 1 cup of white rice to the pot and stir to coat the rice with the oil, onion, and garlic. Toast the rice for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors and lightly brown.

Step 3: Add the Spices and Liquids

Stir in 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 2 teaspoons of dried basil, and mix well. Then pour in 2 cups of chicken broth or water, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, and, if you like, 3 tablespoons of salsa. Mix everything together to ensure the tomato paste is well incorporated.

Step 4: Cook in the Instant Pot

Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to manual high pressure for 6 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure. Open the lid carefully.

Step 5: Fluff and Serve

Add 2 tablespoons of butter or ghee to the rice and stir gently to combine. Fluff the rice with a fork, and it’s ready to serve!

Stovetop Method

If you prefer the stovetop method, follow the same steps for sautéing the onion and garlic. Then add the rice, spices, and liquids as directed. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 18-20 minutes until the rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed. Fluff with butter or ghee before serving.

Make It Year-Round

There are so many ways to enjoy this Homemade Spanish Rice throughout the year. Here are some ideas:

Serve it as a side dish for summer barbecues with grilled chicken or steak.
Pair it with fall-inspired dishes like pumpkin enchiladas.
Use it as a base for burrito bowls topped with your favorite proteins and veggies.
Make a comforting rice casserole in the winter months with added cheese and vegetables.

No matter the season, this dish is incredibly versatile and can be tailored to your cravings.

Slip-Ups to Skip

When making your Homemade Spanish Rice, avoid these common mistakes to ensure perfect results:

Don’t skip toasting the rice; it enhances the flavor significantly.
Be careful with the liquid ratio; too much can make the rice mushy.
Allowing for a natural release in the Instant Pot is crucial for the best texture.
For stovetop cooking, don’t lift the lid while it’s simmering, as this releases steam and can affect cooking time.

By following these tips, you’ll avoid the pitfalls that can lead to less-than-stellar rice.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

Once you’ve prepared your Homemade Spanish Rice, here are some storage tips to keep it fresh:

The rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the rice and microwave it for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

For longer storage, consider freezing the rice. Place it in a freezer-safe container, and it will keep well for up to 3 months.
When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

This way, you’ll always have a delicious side dish ready to go.

Your Top Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice typically requires longer cooking, about 22-25 minutes in the Instant Pot, with a natural release.

What can I add to the rice for extra flavor?

You can add diced bell peppers, corn, or even black beans for a heartier dish. Fresh cilantro or lime juice added just before serving can also enhance the flavor.

Is this dish spicy?

The spice level depends largely on the chili powder you use. For a milder flavor, opt for a mild chili powder or reduce the amount. You can always add more spice later if desired.

Can I make this rice vegan?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the butter or ghee with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a fully plant-based version.

Quick Weeknight Wins

Here are some quick meal ideas that go perfectly with your Homemade Spanish Rice:

These dishes are simple to prepare and will complement the vibrant flavors of your rice.

Make It Tonight

Now that you have the full guide to making Homemade Spanish Rice (w/ Instant Pot Option), it’s time to get cooking! This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a fun gathering with friends. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a homemade meal that’s bursting with flavor. Happy cooking!