Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure with Chester's Cheesy Spanish Rice! This mouthwatering recipe combines the rich, comforting flavors of perfectly cooked rice with the irresistible allure of melted cheddar cheese. Whether you're a busy home cook looking for a quick and delicious side dish or a food enthusiast craving something special, this recipe promises to tantalize your taste buds and become an instant family favorite!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Spanish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add long-grain rice to the pan and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes, allowing the rice to lightly toast and become fragrant. This helps enhance the rice's nutty flavor.
- Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly and ensure rice is evenly distributed.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid and let the rice simmer for approximately 18-20 minutes, or until liquid is fully absorbed and rice is tender.
- Remove the pan from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow rice to steam and become fluffy.
- Uncover and fluff rice gently with a fork. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the hot rice and stir until cheese is melted and evenly distributed.
- Season with salt to taste. Serve hot as a delicious side dish or light main course.
Tips
- Toast the Rice: Don't skip the rice toasting step! This crucial technique enhances the nutty flavor and prevents the rice from becoming mushy.
- Liquid Ratio is Key: Always use the recommended 2:1 liquid to rice ratio for perfectly cooked, fluffy rice.
- Low and Slow: Simmer the rice on low heat with a tight-fitting lid to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
- Cheese Melting Trick: Let the hot rice sit for a moment after adding cheese to help it melt more evenly and create a creamy texture.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for the best melting quality and most vibrant flavor.
- Optional Enhancements: Consider adding diced bell peppers, jalapeños, or cooked ground meat to make this dish even more substantial and flavorful.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
