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Instant Pot Spanish Rice Recipe

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This Instant Pot Spanish Rice recipe offers a flavorful and easy way to prepare classic Spanish rice using your pressure cooker. Featuring aromatic spices, garlic, and a rich tomato base, this dish is perfect as a side or a base for Mexican-inspired meals. Ready in just 25 minutes, it combines convenience with robust taste. Additionally, the recipe includes stovetop instructions for those who prefer traditional cooking methods.

  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Instant Pot
  • Cuisine: Spanish, Mexican

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups long grain white rice
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 cups broth (vegetable or chicken)
  • 1 1/4 cups canned tomato sauce
  • 3 tbsp cilantro, chopped

Instructions

  1. Rinse the Rice: Pour the rice into a mesh sieve and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, ensuring fluffy rice.
  2. Sauté Ingredients: For Instant Pot: Press the “sauté” button and let it warm up for about a minute. Add butter, and once melted, add olive oil, rice, and minced garlic. Sauté continuously for 3 minutes, then turn the Instant Pot off. For stovetop: In a large dutch oven over medium heat, melt butter and add olive oil. Add the rice and garlic, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add Spices and Liquids: Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, broth, and tomato sauce. Mix gently to combine, making sure the rice is submerged in the liquid.
  4. Cook the Rice: For Instant Pot: Seal the lid with the pressure valve set to “seal”. Pressure cook on high for 4 minutes, then let natural pressure release for 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure. For stovetop: Increase heat to high to bring to a boil, then cover and simmer on low for 12-14 minutes until rice absorbs all liquid and is tender.
  5. Fluff and Serve: Remove the lid, fluff the rice with a fork, and stir in the chopped cilantro to finish. Serve warm as a side dish or base for your favorite Mexican meals.

Notes

  • Rinsing the rice thoroughly is key to preventing clumping and achieving fluffy texture.
  • Use vegetable or chicken broth depending on dietary preference or flavor profile.
  • Natural pressure release helps prevent rice from sticking and ensures even cooking in the Instant Pot.
  • Fresh cilantro adds brightness but can be omitted for a milder flavor.
  • Adjust chili powder to taste for more or less heat.