Easy Instant Pot Spanish Rice

 Easy Instant Pot Spanish Rice Recipe

Easy Instant Pot Spanish Rice Recipe

This Instant Pot Spanish Rice is a flavorful, one-pot dish that’s perfect as a side for tacos, enchiladas, or grilled meats. Quick, simple, and delicious!

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Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• 1½ cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ cup frozen peas (optional, for added color and nutrition)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving, optional)

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Instructions:

1. Sauté the Aromatics:

   • Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode and add the olive oil.
   • Once hot, sauté the diced onion for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

2. Toast the Rice:

   • Stir in the uncooked rice, coating it in the oil. Sauté for 2–3 minutes to lightly toast the rice, enhancing its flavor.

3. Add the Liquid and Seasoning:

   • Pour in the chicken broth and tomato sauce. Stir in the cumin, paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.

4. Pressure Cook the Rice:

   • Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to Sealing.
   • Select Manual/Pressure Cook and set the timer for 8 minutes on High Pressure.

5. Quick Release:

   • Once the cooking time is up, carefully perform a Quick Release by moving the valve to Venting to release the pressure.

6. Fluff and Serve:

   • Open the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in the frozen peas if using; the residual heat will cook them.
   • Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges if desired.

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Tips:

• Brown Rice Option: Increase the cooking time to 22–24 minutes and add an additional ¼ cup of broth.
• Extra Veggies: Add diced bell peppers or corn for more texture and flavor.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Enjoy your quick and easy Spanish rice, perfect for your next fiesta! 🎉🍚