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Instant Pot Spanish Rice

Name: Instant Pot Spanish Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 4 min
Total time: 14 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 1/2 cup onion (diced ); 1/2 cup bell pepper (diced , any color); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon oregano; 1 teaspoon chili powder (or paprika); 1 1/2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth); 14 ounces tomatoes (diced tomatoes, undrained); Salt and pepper to taste

Author: Laurie Fleming
Published: June 8, 2021

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Instant Pot Spanish Rice — Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this Instant Pot Spanish Rice recipe. This dish is a fantastic addition to any meal with its vibrant colors and bold flavors.

Whether serving it as a side or a main course, you’re in for a delightful culinary experience. Let’s dive into how to make this mouthwatering Instant Pot Spanish Rice!

This is one of my favorite go-to side dishes whenever I make anything Mexican. It has tons of flavor and takes less than 5 minutes of my attention to prepare. The Instant Pot does the rest. Here is my foolproof recipe for Instant Pot Spanish Rice.

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

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

What is Spanish Rice?

Spanish Rice, also known as “arroz rojo” or “Mexican rice,” is a popular and flavorful dish in Mexican and Spanish cuisine. It’s made using white rice cooked with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and various seasonings, giving it a rich red or orange color. This dish often includes bell peppers, peas, and cilantro for added flavor and texture. Spanish Rice can be served as a side dish or as an accompaniment to various Mexican and Spanish dishes, such as tacos, enchiladas, or grilled meats. It’s a versatile and delicious addition to any meal.

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

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

You’ll love this recipe for Spanish rice in the Instant Pot because it makes preparing this classic dish incredibly quick and easy. The Instant Pot’s pressure cooking function ensures that the rice is perfectly cooked, fluffy, and infused with all the delicious flavors of tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices. Plus, it’s a one-pot dish, which means less cleanup. Whether serving as a side dish or part of a larger Mexican or Spanish meal, this Instant Pot Spanish rice will surely be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients Needed For Instant Pot Spanish Rice

Spanish rice, or Mexican rice, is a flavorful and satisfying side dish that pairs perfectly with various Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes. Making Spanish rice in the Instant Pot streamlines the process and results in perfectly cooked, aromatic rice infused with tomatoes, onions, and spices. Here are the few simple pantry ingredients you’ll need to prepare this classic side dish in your Instant Pot:

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil or vegetable oil adds a rich, fruity flavor and helps sauté the rice and aromatics.
Long-Grain White Rice: Long-grain white rice is the foundation of Spanish rice and becomes tender and fluffy when cooked in the Instant Pot.
White Onion: Chopped onion contributes a savory and slightly sweet flavor to the rice while providing a nice texture.
Bell Pepper: Use red or green bell peppers for added flavor and texture.
Garlic: Minced garlic cloves infuse the rice with a delightful garlic aroma and flavor.
Oregano: Adds flavor and freshness to the dish.
Spanish Paprika or Chili Powder: Adds a gentle heat and mild smokiness to the dish without overwhelming it.
Diced Tomatoes: It gives Spanish rice its signature reddish hue and imparts a rich, tangy tomato flavor.
Broth: Chicken broth provides the liquid needed to cook the rice and adds savory depth.
Kosher Salt: Salt enhances the overall flavor and balances the other seasonings.

How To Make Spanish Rice In Electric Pressure Cooker

To make Spanish rice in an electric pressure cooker like the Instant Pot, follow these simple steps:

Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.

Set your electric pressure cooker to sauté mode and add the olive oil. Once it’s hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent.

Add the minced garlic to the sautéed onions and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Stir in the rinsed rice and continue to sauté for 2-3 minutes. The rice should become lightly toasted. Pour in the tomato sauce, chicken broth, ground cumin, chili powder, and salt. Stir everything well to combine.

Close the lid of the pressure cooker, set the valve to the sealing position, and cancel the sauté mode. Cook the rice under manual high pressure for 4 minutes. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully perform a quick release by turning the valve to venting. Remove the remaining pressure.

Open the lid and fluff the Spanish rice with a fork. Garnish it with fresh cilantro leaves for extra flavor and color. Serve your Instant Pot Spanish rice as a side dish to complement your favorite Mexican or Tex-Mex entrées.

This recipe delivers perfectly cooked Spanish rice with a wonderful blend of flavors. It’s a fantastic accompaniment to tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and more.

Recipe Variations

There are various ways to customize and add variations to your Instant Pot Spanish rice to suit your taste preferences. Here are some ideas:

Protein Additions: You can make your Spanish rice heartier by adding protein. Consider mixing in cooked and diced chicken, ground beef, ground turkey, or chorizo during the sautéing step. This turns your side dish into a complete meal.
Veggies: Incorporate vegetables for added flavor and nutrition. Bell peppers, diced tomatoes, corn, peas, or diced green chilies can enhance the dish. Sauté them along with the onions and garlic.
Spice It Up: Adjust the heat level by adding more or less chili powder, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes. For a smoky flavor, use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.
Herbs and Seasonings: Experiment with different herbs and seasonings. Fresh cilantro, parsley, or oregano can provide a burst of freshness. You can also add a bay leaf during cooking for added depth of flavor.
Tomato Variations: Instead of tomato sauce, you can use canned tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, fresh salsa, or tomato paste with their juice for a chunkier texture. Fire-roasted tomatoes add a smoky element.
Customize the Broth: While chicken broth is commonly used, you can switch to vegetable broth or beef broth for a different flavor profile. Homemade broth is even better for full control over the flavor.
Rice Varieties: Although long-grain white rice is traditional, you can substitute it with brown rice, long grain wild rice, red rice, jasmine rice, or basmati rice. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the rice variety you choose.
Cheese Topping: After cooking, sprinkle shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend) over the Spanish rice and let it melt for a cheesy twist.
Vegan Option: To make the dish vegan, use vegetable broth and skip the animal-based protein. You can also add plant-based protein sources like tofu or tempeh.
Nutritional Boost: Incorporate black beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas for added protein and fiber. This will make your Spanish rice more substantial.

Feel free to get creative and tailor your Instant Pot Spanish rice to your liking. These variations allow you to create unique flavors and adapt the dish to different dietary preferences. Enjoy your customized Spanish rice with your favorite Mexican-inspired meals!

Pro Tips Easy Spanish Rice

Here are some pro tips to make the perfect Instant Pot Spanish rice:

Rinse the Rice: Before cooking, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.
Saute for Flavor: Don’t skip the sautéing step. Cooking the onions and garlic in olive oil before adding the rice enhances the dish’s overall flavor.
Use Chicken Broth: Chicken broth adds a rich flavor to the Spanish rice. You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
Adjust the Heat: If you like your Spanish rice spicier, increase the chili powder or add cayenne pepper. Be cautious and taste as you go to avoid making it too hot.
Let It Rest: After the cooking cycle, let the rice rest for a few minutes with the lid on. This helps the rice finish cooking and absorb any excess moisture.
Fluff with a Fork: Use a fork to fluff the rice gently after it has rested. This separates the grains and prevents clumping.
Customize with Ingredients: Customize your Spanish rice by adding diced tomatoes, bell peppers, peas, or corn. These vegetables add texture and color to the dish.
Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley before serving. Herbs add a burst of freshness and elevate the flavor.
Lime or Lemon Juice: Fresh or lemon juice can brighten the dish and balance the flavors.
Don’t Overmix: When adding the tomato sauce, gently fold it into the rice to avoid overmixing, which can make the rice mushy.
Double the Recipe: If you’re serving a crowd, double the recipe. The Instant Pot can handle larger quantities, but remember that the cooking time remains the same.
Reheating: If you have leftovers, reheat the Spanish rice in the microwave or stovetop. You may need to add a splash of broth to restore moisture.

With these pro tips, you can make delicious and flavorful Instant Pot Spanish rice, perfect as a side dish for your favorite Mexican or Tex-Mex meals.

Faq’s

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Yes, you can use brown rice but must adjust the cooking time and liquid quantity. Brown rice generally requires a longer cooking time and more liquid than white rice. Consult your Instant Pot’s manual or follow a specific brown rice recipe for guidance.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan? Absolutely! You can make Spanish rice vegetarian or vegan by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you can omit any animal-based toppings or garnishes. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or corn to enhance the flavor and texture.

How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the Instant Pot? To prevent the rice from sticking, thoroughly rinse it before cooking. Additionally, use the sauté function to cook the onions and garlic in oil first. Deglaze the pot by scraping any browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon before adding the rice and liquid.

Can I use long-grain rice for this recipe? Yes, you can use long-grain rice, but remember that different rice types may require slightly different cooking times and liquid ratios. Adjustments might be needed, so refer to your specific rice’s cooking instructions or consult the Instant Pot manual.

How can I make the rice less spicy? Reduce the chili powder or omit it if the rice is too spicy. Taste the rice as you go and adjust the seasonings to your preference.

Can I freeze rice? For up to three months, you can freeze leftover Spanish rice in an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in the microwave or on the stove top with a splash of broth to restore moisture.

What can I serve with Spanish rice? Spanish rice pairs well with a variety of dishes. It’s commonly served with Mexican or Tex-Mex dishes like tacos, burrito bowls, enchiladas, or grilled chicken. You can also enjoy it as a side dish alongside grilled vegetables or as a base for a hearty bowl with beans and toppings.

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