Last Updated on August 6, 2025 by Casia Valdés
A good plate of Spanish rice should be light, fluffy, and full of comforting tomato flavor. This Fluffy Spanish Rice recipe—made with jasmine rice, fresh tomatoes, and a rich chicken bouillon blend—is a family favorite that never fails to impress.
Growing up, this rice was a constant at our table. My abuela would say, “El secreto está en no revolver mucho y en no destapar la olla.” The secret lies in not stirring too much and never lifting the lid! This method results in perfectly separated, fluffy grains every time—and now I’m passing that wisdom on to you.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Fluffy, not sticky – Pre-soaked jasmine rice gives the perfect texture
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No canned tomatoes – Uses fresh produce for the best flavor
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Pairs with everything – Ideal for tacos, grilled chicken, or enchiladas
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Simple ingredients – Pantry staples, no fancy equipment
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Great for batch cooking – Stays delicious even as leftovers
Ingredients (Serves 6)
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1 cup jasmine rice (soaked in cold water for 20 minutes, then drained)
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2 fresh tomatoes (no canned tomatoes here!)
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¼ white onion
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2 tablespoons chicken bouillon powder (or 2 bouillon cubes)
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Salt to taste
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½ cup water (for blending)
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2 tablespoons oil (for frying the rice)
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2 cups water (for cooking)
Equipment Needed
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Blender
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Medium pot with a lid
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Fine-mesh strainer
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Measuring cups
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Wooden spoon
Instructions
Step 1: Soak the Rice
Rinse 1 cup of jasmine rice in cold water, then soak for 20 minutes. This step removes excess starch and ensures fluffy, non-mushy rice. Drain thoroughly.
Step 2: Make the Tomato Base
In a blender, combine:
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2 fresh tomatoes
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¼ white onion
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2 tablespoons chicken bouillon
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Salt to taste
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½ cup water
Blend until smooth. This will be the flavorful liquid base for your rice.
Step 3: Fry the Rice
In a medium pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the drained rice and fry, stirring occasionally, until the rice turns a light tan or golden color—this takes about 5–7 minutes. Don’t rush this step; it builds flavor and improves texture.
Step 4: Add Tomato Mixture and Cook
Pour the blended tomato mixture into the pot. Wait until it reaches a gentle boil. Then add 2 cups of water, stir once, and cover tightly with a lid.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and set a timer for 20 minutes. Do not lift the lid during cooking—this traps steam and cooks the rice perfectly.
Step 5: Let It Rest
Once the timer goes off, turn off the heat and let the rice sit undisturbed for 10 more minutes. Again, don’t lift the lid! This step allows the rice to finish cooking in its own steam.
Step 6: Fluff and Serve
After 10 minutes, uncover the pot and gently fluff the rice with a fork. Serve hot as a side dish or a base for your favorite Mexican entrees.
Serving Suggestions
This rice pairs beautifully with:
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Carne Asada or Pollo Asado
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Stuffed peppers or fajitas
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Black beans, refried beans, or grilled vegetables
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As a base for burrito bowls or alongside tacos
Storage and Reheating
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Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
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Reheat in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of water
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You can freeze in portions—thaw and reheat as needed
Tips for Success
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Use jasmine rice for fragrance and light texture
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Soak and drain rice well before frying—it’s key to fluffiness
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Don’t over-stir while cooking—it activates starch and makes rice sticky
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Never open the lid while simmering or resting
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For added flavor, stir in a pinch of cumin or garlic powder
Common Questions
Can I use a different type of rice?
You can, but jasmine rice works best for this style. Long grain white rice is a good substitute; avoid short grain or arborio rice.
Why is my rice sticky or mushy?
This usually happens if the rice wasn’t rinsed or soaked long enough, or if the lid was lifted during cooking.
Can I make it vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute chicken bouillon with a vegetable bouillon powder or your favorite plant-based seasoning.
What if I want it spicier?
Add a pinch of chili powder, jalapeño slices, or a spoonful of salsa to the tomato blend.
Final Thoughts
Fluffy Spanish Rice is more than just a side—it’s the kind of simple, soul-satisfying food that rounds out any meal. With just a few basic ingredients and a little patience, you can create a dish that feels authentic and comforting. It’s a staple that deserves a permanent place in your recipe rotation, whether you’re hosting a taco night or just looking to bring something warm and flavorful to the table.
Once you try it this way—no mush, no clumps—you won’t go back. Enjoy!
Fluffy Spanish Rice
Ingredients
Method
- Rinse 1 cup of jasmine rice in cold water, then soak for 20 minutes. This step removes excess starch and ensures fluffy, non-mushy rice. Drain thoroughly.
- In a blender, combine:
- 2 fresh tomatoes
- ¼ white onion
- 2 tablespoons chicken bouillon
- Salt to taste
- ½ cup water
- Blend until smooth. This will be the flavorful liquid base for your rice.
- In a medium pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the drained rice and fry, stirring occasionally, until the rice turns a light tan or golden color—this takes about 5–7 minutes. Don’t rush this step; it builds flavor and improves texture.
- Pour the blended tomato mixture into the pot. Wait until it reaches a gentle boil. Then add 2 cups of water, stir once, and cover tightly with a lid.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and set a timer for 20 minutes. Do not lift the lid during cooking—this traps steam and cooks the rice perfectly.
- Once the timer goes off, turn off the heat and let the rice sit undisturbed for 10 more minutes. Again, don’t lift the lid! This step allows the rice to finish cooking in its own steam.
- After 10 minutes, uncover the pot and gently fluff the rice with a fork. Serve hot as a side dish or a base for your favorite Mexican entrees.
