Spanish Rice III

Spanish Rice III Recipe - Delicious and Easy-To-Make Dish for Family Dinner

Region / culture: Spain | Servings: 4

Introduction

Spanish Rice III is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a family meal or a gathering with friends. This recipe combines the classic flavors of Spanish cuisine with a cheesy twist that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

History

Spanish rice, also known as Mexican rice, is a popular dish that has its origins in Spanish cuisine. It is typically made with rice, tomatoes, and a variety of seasonings such as onions, garlic, and bell peppers. The addition of cheese in this recipe gives it a unique and delicious twist that is sure to please your taste buds.

Ingredients

0.25 cup of chopped onion
0.25 cup of chopped green bell pepper
0.25 cup of chopped celery
2 tbsp of melted butter or margarine
2.5 cups of cooked rice
1 can (14.5 to 16 oz (454 g)) of diced tomatoes with juice
0.5 tsp of salt
0.13 tsp of pepper
0.25 to 0.5 cup of shredded Mexican combination cheese

How to prepare

In a large skillet, melt butter or margarine over low heat. Saute onion, green bell pepper, and celery until the vegetables are tender.
Add rice, tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Remove the Spanish rice from heat and stir in the cheese.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or shrimp to make it a complete meal.
Substitute the Mexican combination cheese with cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
Add a can of black beans or corn for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the vegetables until they are tender to ensure that they are fully cooked and add flavor to the dish.

- Simmering the rice with the tomatoes, salt, and pepper allows the flavors to meld together and create a delicious base for the dish.

- Stirring in the cheese at the end adds a creamy and cheesy element to the Spanish rice that takes it to the next level.

Serving Suggestions

Spanish Rice III can be served as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, beef, or fish. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian meal.

Cooking Techniques

Sauteing the vegetables before adding the rice and tomatoes helps to develop their flavors and ensures that they are fully cooked.

- Simmering the rice with the tomatoes allows the flavors to meld together and creates a delicious base for the dish.

- Stirring in the cheese at the end adds a creamy and cheesy element to the Spanish rice.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil instead of margarine for a healthier option.

- Substitute brown rice for white rice for added fiber and nutrients.

- Use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Spanish Rice III can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Spanish Rice III in a colorful bowl garnished with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions for a beautiful presentation. You can also sprinkle some extra cheese on top for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Spanish Rice III pairs well with a variety of dishes such as grilled chicken, beef, or fish. It also goes well with a side of refried beans or a fresh green salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

200

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 32g

- Dietary Fiber: 1g

- Sugars: 2g

Fats

- Total Fat: 6g

- Saturated Fat: 3g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 4g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 6%

- Vitamin C: 15%

- Calcium: 8%

- Iron: 4%

Alergens

Contains dairy (cheese)

Summary

Spanish Rice III is a delicious and satisfying dish that is relatively low in calories and provides a good source of carbohydrates and protein. It also contains essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C and Calcium.

Summary

How did I get this recipe?

It feels like just yesterday when I stumbled upon this recipe for Spanish Rice III. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Maria in her cozy kitchen. Maria was a wonderful cook, and I always loved trying out new recipes with her.

On that particular day, Maria handed me a worn and stained recipe card for Spanish Rice III. She told me it was a family recipe passed down from her grandmother, who had learned it from a Spanish neighbor many years ago. I was thrilled to have the opportunity to learn this special recipe, and Maria was more than happy to teach me.

As we gathered the ingredients and prepared to make the Spanish Rice III, Maria shared stories of her grandmother and the neighbor who had shared the recipe with her. She spoke of how the neighbor had immigrated from Spain and brought with her a love for traditional Spanish cuisine. It was clear that this recipe held a special place in Maria's heart, and I felt honored to be able to learn it from her.

We started by sautéing onions and garlic in a large skillet, filling the kitchen with a delicious aroma. Maria showed me how to toast the rice in the skillet before adding in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and spices. She explained that the key to a good Spanish Rice III was to let the rice slowly simmer and absorb all the flavors, creating a rich and savory dish.

As the rice cooked, Maria and I chatted and laughed, enjoying each other's company as we cooked. She shared more stories about her family and the traditions they held dear, and I felt like I was getting a glimpse into her world through this recipe.

Finally, after letting the rice simmer for what felt like hours, we lifted the lid of the skillet to reveal a steaming pot of perfectly cooked Spanish Rice III. Maria scooped some onto a plate and handed me a fork, urging me to taste the fruits of our labor.

I took a bite, and my taste buds exploded with the flavors of tomatoes, onions, and spices. The rice was perfectly cooked, each grain fluffy and infused with the savory broth. I couldn't believe I had made something so delicious, and I thanked Maria profusely for teaching me this special recipe.

From that day on, Spanish Rice III became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and even just for myself on a quiet evening at home. Every time I cooked it, I thought of Maria and the special bond we shared over this recipe.

As the years passed, I continued to experiment with the recipe, adding my own twist here and there to make it my own. I learned to customize it to my taste, adding more spice or vegetables depending on my mood. But no matter how I changed it, the essence of the recipe remained the same - a connection to Maria, her family, and the neighbor who had shared this culinary treasure with them.

Now, as I pass on this recipe to you, my dear grandchild, I hope you will feel the same joy and connection that I do every time I make Spanish Rice III. Remember the stories I've shared with you, and the love and history that went into creating this dish. And most importantly, enjoy every bite, savoring the flavors and memories that come with each mouthful.

Cook with love, my dear, and may this recipe bring you as much joy and connection as it has brought me over the years. And who knows, maybe one day you'll pass it on to your own grandchild, creating a new link in the chain of culinary tradition that has been passed down through generations. Bon appétit!