Instant Pot Spanish Rice

The other name for this rice dish is Mexican Rice. This is such a flavorful dish, and I love serving it to my family. It goes with so many dishes, from BBQ to traditional Mexican foods. 

Spanish Rice is really one of my favorite dishes to make in my Instant Pot, and pressure cooking really brings out all of the flavors! Easy and absolutely delicious!

If you are looking for even more Easy Instant Pot Rice Dishes, some of my favorites are INSTANT POT GREEK LEMON RICE, INSTANT POT BASMATI RICE, INSTANT POT CHICKEN FRIED RICE, and INSTANT POT VEGETARIAN CHINESE FRIED RICE.

What is Spanish Rice?

I did not know before writing this: the only reason this dish is called Spanish or Mexican rice is that the Spanish explorers brought the rice back from their trip to Asia.

It appears that the Spanish introduced the rice to Mexico; hence the name stuck Spanish rice.

Ingredients Needed For Instant Pot Spanish Rice

• Olive Oil
• Long-Grain Rice
• Onions
• Bell Pepper
• Minced Garlic
• Oregano
• Spanish Paprika
• Diced Tomatoes
• Water Or Vegetable Broth
• Salt

How To Make Instant Pot Spanish Rice

Start by adding the olive oil to the Instant Pot bowl. Press the saute button, and allow about 30 seconds for the olive oil to heat up before adding the rice. Add the rice, constantly mixing it, so it doesn’t end up burning or sticking.

The olive oil will coat the rice, continue to mix until almost golden brown. Mix in the diced onion, diced green pepper, garlic, water (broth or stock), oregano, and paprika. Continue to saute for a couple of minutes, being mindful to keep on stirring. Add the drained can of diced tomatoes.

Add the lid, making sure the vent is in the sealing position and set manual high pressure for 6 minutes. When the time is up, let the pressure naturally release.

How Do You Make Rice in the Instant Pot?

I truly love a rice dish from the Instant Pot. I believe that one of the best uses for an Instant Pot is a great plate of rice. Also, it is one of the easiest things to make in the Instant Pot. 

Once you get the ratios correct, everything else falls into place.  Rice is also a really budget-friendly side and goes with most meals.

One of the tricks that I have learned about making rice in the Instant Pot is to add a teaspoon of olive oil for every 1 cup you are making of rice. This really helps the rice not stick together after it is done pressure cooking.

Which Button Should I use for Rice in The Instant Pot:

Most Instant Pots have a rice button on the display panel. If you have the button, you can use it, otherwise use manual high or low pressure for rice, and set the time manually. 

The rice dish will come out the same. 

What Other Liquids Can I Use?

You can change the water, in any rice recipe, for beef stock, beef broth, chicken stock, chicken broth, vegetable stock, vegetable brother, or a combination of any of them.

How To Store Instant Pot Spanish Rice

If you make too much or want to make it ahead of time, you can easily store leftover Instant Pot Spanish Rice for later use. To do this, let it cool to room temperature, then place the rice into an airtight container.

Store in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days. 

When you want to reheat the rice, add water or broth to the rice, and microwave until warmed through.

Can I Use Salsa Instead of Diced Tomatoes?

Yes, this is a great way to add extra flavor to your Spanish Rice, substitute the same amounts, and you will have a great and flavorful dish!

You can also leave out the bell peppers if you use the salsa since most salsas already have diced vegetables in them.

What’s the best rice to use?

Most Spanish Rice dishes are made with long-grain rice, but you can easily substitute long-grain with basmati or jasmine rice. 

Another rice you can use is brown, although you need to increase the cooking time to 15 minutes.