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Spanish Yellow Rice Recipe Easy Homemade Saffron Rice with Roasted Peppers

Spanish yellow rice recipe - featured image

A simple, comforting Spanish yellow rice infused with saffron and roasted red peppers, perfect as a flavorful side or light main dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice (about 300 grams)
  • ¼ teaspoon saffron threads, steeped in ¼ cup (60 ml) warm water
  • ½ cup roasted red peppers, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 cups (720 ml) chicken or vegetable broth, preferably low sodium
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¾ teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
  • Lemon wedge, for serving

Instructions

  1. Steep the saffron threads in ¼ cup (60 ml) of warm water for about 10 minutes to release color and aroma.
  2. While saffron steeps, finely dice the yellow onion, mince garlic cloves, and chop roasted red peppers.
  3. Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add rice and toast, stirring frequently, for 3-4 minutes until grains look translucent with a slight golden tint.
  4. Push rice to the side of the pan and add diced onion and garlic. Cook for 3-5 minutes until softened and fragrant but not browned. Stir in roasted peppers and cook for another 2 minutes.
  5. Pour in the steeped saffron with its liquid, chicken or vegetable broth, and smoked paprika. Stir gently to combine. Season with salt.
  6. Bring mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover with a tight-fitting lid. Simmer undisturbed for 18-20 minutes.
  7. Remove pan from heat and let sit, covered, for 5-7 minutes. Fluff rice gently with a fork to separate grains and release steam.
  8. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

Toast the rice first to deepen flavor. Use quality saffron threads for best color and aroma. Avoid stirring while simmering to keep rice fluffy. Let rice rest covered after cooking to redistribute moisture. Adjust salt carefully depending on broth sodium content. Add a splash of warm broth if rice is firm after resting. Optional additions include toasted pine nuts, sliced olives, or proteins like chorizo or shrimp.

Nutrition

Keywords: Spanish yellow rice, saffron rice, roasted red peppers, easy rice recipe, saffron, gluten-free, vegan option, quick side dish