Spanish Rice and Ham

Spanish Rice and Ham Recipe - A Delicious Dish from Spain

Region / culture: Spain | Servings: 4

Introduction

Spanish Rice and Ham is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the flavors of rice, tomatoes, ham, and spices. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal that the whole family will love.

History

Spanish Rice and Ham is a popular dish that has its roots in Spanish cuisine. It is a simple and flavorful dish that has been enjoyed for generations. The combination of rice, tomatoes, and ham creates a satisfying and comforting meal that is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

1 tbsp vegetable oil
0.5 cup chopped onion
0.5 cup chopped green pepper
1 clove garlic, minced
1 28 oz (794 g) can tomatoes, undrained, cut up
0.75 cup raw rice
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp chili powder
0.13 tsp pepper
bottled hot pepper sauce to taste
1 cup water
2 cups cubed ham

How to prepare

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over low heat.
2. Add onion, green pepper, and garlic. Cook until tender, but not browned, for about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in undrained tomatoes, rice, sugar, chili powder, pepper, optional hot pepper sauce, water, and ham.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes or until rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Variations

Add some diced bell peppers or jalapenos for an extra kick of heat.
Substitute the ham with cooked chicken or shrimp for a different flavor.
Mix in some black beans or corn for added texture and flavor.

Notes

Cook Time:
Serves: 7

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the onions, green peppers, and garlic until they are tender but not browned. This will help to develop the flavors of the dish.

- Adjust the amount of hot pepper sauce to suit your taste preferences. You can add more or less depending on how spicy you like your food.

- Make sure to cover the skillet while simmering the rice to ensure that it cooks evenly and absorbs all the flavors of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Spanish Rice and Ham with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced meal. You can also top it with some shredded cheese or sour cream for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cover the skillet while simmering the rice to ensure that it cooks evenly and absorbs all the flavors of the dish.

- Stir the ingredients occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a healthier alternative.

- Substitute the ham with cooked sausage or bacon for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Spanish Rice and Ham ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Spanish Rice and Ham with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. - Serve it in individual bowls or on a platter for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Spanish Rice and Ham with a side of crusty bread or tortillas for a complete meal.

- Pair it with a glass of red wine or a cold beer for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Spanish Rice and Ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

240

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 28g

- Dietary Fiber: 2g

- Sugars: 5g

Fats

- Total Fat: 8g

- Saturated Fat: 2g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 15g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10%

- Vitamin C: 30%

- Calcium: 4%

- Iron: 10%

Alergens

Contains: None

Summary

Spanish Rice and Ham is a balanced meal that provides a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a nutritious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a wholesome meal.

Summary

Spanish Rice and Ham is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. With a combination of rice, tomatoes, ham, and spices, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria at her home in Spain. Maria was a fantastic cook, and she always seemed to effortlessly whip up the most delicious meals. On this particular day, she was making Spanish Rice and Ham, a dish that I had never tried before.

As I watched Maria move around her kitchen with grace and skill, I couldn't help but feel a twinge of envy. How I wished I had her talent for cooking! I asked her if she would mind showing me how to make the dish, and she happily agreed.

We started by sautéing onions and garlic in a large skillet until they were soft and fragrant. The kitchen was filled with the mouth-watering aroma of the ingredients mingling together. Next, we added diced tomatoes, bell peppers, and smoked ham to the skillet, allowing the flavors to meld and marry.

Maria explained to me that the key to a good Spanish Rice and Ham dish was using high-quality ingredients and allowing the dish to simmer slowly to develop its full flavor. She also shared with me the secret ingredient that gave the dish its unique taste – a splash of sherry vinegar.

As the rice cooked and absorbed all the delicious flavors of the other ingredients, Maria and I chatted about life, love, and the joy of cooking. It was a magical afternoon, filled with laughter and good food.

When the dish was finally ready, Maria spooned it onto plates and topped it with fresh parsley. The rice was fluffy and flavorful, the ham tender and smoky. I took a bite and was instantly transported to a place of warmth and comfort.

After that day, I made Spanish Rice and Ham regularly. It became a staple in my cooking repertoire, a dish that always brought back memories of that sunny day in Spain with Maria.

Over the years, I adapted the recipe to suit my own tastes and preferences. I added a pinch of paprika for a subtle kick of heat, and sometimes I threw in some peas for a pop of color and freshness.

I also shared the recipe with my family and friends, who all raved about how delicious it was. They would often request it for special occasions or when they needed a comforting meal to lift their spirits.

As I grew older, my love for cooking only deepened. I continued to experiment with new recipes and techniques, always seeking to expand my culinary knowledge and skills. But no matter how many dishes I learned to make, Spanish Rice and Ham remained one of my favorites.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, surrounded by pots and pans and the comforting smells of food cooking, I can't help but feel grateful for all the recipes and memories that have enriched my life. And every time I make Spanish Rice and Ham, I am reminded of Maria and the day we spent together in her kitchen, sharing stories and laughter over a delicious meal. Cooking truly is a labor of love, and I am thankful for the joy it has brought me over the years.