Instant Pot Spanish Rice
Spanish Rice is a vibrant and comforting dish that brings the warmth of home cooking right to your table. This Instant Pot version not only saves time but also locks in all the delicious flavors that make this dish a favorite among many. With a medley of spices, fresh ingredients, and the ease of cooking in an Instant Pot, this recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or as a filling side for your favorite Mexican dishes. Your taste buds will dance with joy as the aromatic spices meld together, creating a rice dish that is both satisfying and bursting with flavor.
Imagine serving this colorful rice alongside tacos, grilled chicken, or even as a standalone dish topped with fresh cilantro. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings joy to the dinner table. Feast your eyes on this beautiful and fragrant dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, and they’ll love how delicious it is!
This is what the finished dish looks like when perfectly cooked.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Gather all the fresh ingredients needed for this delicious dish.
Directions
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode and heat the olive oil.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, and the rinsed rice.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Close the lid, set to ‘Sealing’ position, and cook on ‘Manual’ for 4 minutes.
- Once cooking is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Ingredient substitutions: Swap long-grain white rice with brown rice, adjusting the cooking time to about 22 minutes. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
- Optional variations: Add cooked bell peppers, corn, or black beans for added texture and flavor. A squeeze of lime juice before serving can also brighten up the dish.
- Storage or reheating tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to prevent drying out.
Recipe Information
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty level: Easy
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Instant Pot Spanish Rice
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice Rinsed under cold water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Used for sautéing
- 1 medium onion, chopped Adds flavor and texture
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Provides aroma and taste
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes Add with juice
- 1 cup vegetable broth Can substitute with chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon chili powder Gives a spicy kick
- 1 teaspoon cumin Enhances the dish's flavor
- to taste teaspoon Salt and pepper Adjust according to preference
- as needed Fresh cilantro for garnish Optional for serving
Instructions
Preparation
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode and heat the olive oil.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
Cooking
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, and the rinsed rice.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Close the lid, set to ‘Sealing’ position, and cook on ‘Manual’ for 4 minutes.
- Once cooking is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.