Spanish Broccoli Rice Recipe

So, I whipped up this Spanish Broccoli Rice, and honestly, it’s like a fiesta in your mouth! The blend of saffron and Manchego cheese gives it such a rich flavor, while the broccoli keeps things fresh and guilt-free.

I love creating dishes that are both flavorful and nutritious. In my Spanish Broccoli Rice recipe, I combine broccoli florets and long-grain white rice, elevating them with the robust flavors of olive oil and minced garlic.

The fresh scent of paprika and optional saffron threads adds warm, Spanish aromas. This dish is both a satisfying meal and a delightful way to enjoy nutritious broccoli.

Spanish Broccoli Rice Recipe Ingredients

• Broccoli Florets: Packed with fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants.
• Long-Grain White Rice: Provides carbohydrates for energy and is gluten-free.
• Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fat, rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Onion: Adds flavor and contains vitamin C, B6, and manganese.
• Garlic: Boosts immunity, rich in allicin, vitamins, and minerals.
• Vegetable/Chicken Broth: Enhances flavor, source of hydration and minerals.
• Manchego Cheese: Offers a creamy texture, provides calcium and protein.

Spanish Broccoli Rice Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads (optional)
• 1/2 cup grated Manchego cheese (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish

How to Make this Spanish Broccoli Rice Recipe

1. Begin by bringing a medium saucepan of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch them for about 2 minutes, then drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3 minutes.

3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

4. Stir in the rice, allowing it to toast slightly in the pan for about 2 minutes, which will add a nice nutty flavor to the dish.

5. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, and add the paprika, salt, black pepper, and saffron threads if using. Stir well to combine.

6. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

7. About 5 minutes before the rice is fully cooked, gently fold in the blanched broccoli florets, ensuring they are well combined with the rice.

8. Once the rice is done, remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

9. If using, sprinkle the grated Manchego cheese over the top of the dish and replace the lid for a few minutes to let the cheese melt from the residual heat.

10. Garnish with the chopped fresh parsley before serving for a fresh burst of color and flavor. Enjoy your Spanish Broccoli Rice!

Spanish Broccoli Rice Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Medium saucepan
2. Large skillet with lid
3. Colander or strainer
4. Cutting board
5. Chef’s knife
6. Wooden spoon or spatula
7. Measuring cups
8. Measuring spoons
9. Grater (if using Manchego cheese)

FAQ

• Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
  A: Yes, but you’ll need to adjust cooking times and possibly the amount of broth, as brown rice takes longer to cook.
• Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?
  A: Absolutely! Use vegetable broth and skip the Manchego cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative.
• Q: Is saffron necessary in the recipe?
  A: No, saffron is optional, but it adds a rich color and flavor to the dish. You can omit it if you prefer.
• Q: How do I know when the rice is cooked?
  A: The rice should be tender, and most of the liquid should be absorbed. Fluff with a fork to check texture.
• Q: Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
  A: Yes, feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or peas for additional flavor and nutrition.

Spanish Broccoli Rice Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• Broccoli florets: Substitute with cauliflower florets for a different but similar texture.
• Long-grain white rice: Use basmati or jasmine rice for a fragrant twist.
• Olive oil: Replace with avocado oil or canola oil for a neutral flavor.
• Small onion: Swap with shallots for a milder, sweeter taste.
• Manchego cheese: Use Parmesan or Pecorino cheese as an alternative.

Pro Tips

1. For added flavor, toast the saffron threads in a dry pan for about 30 seconds before adding them to the broth. This will enhance their aroma and give your dish a richer color.

2. To achieve perfectly fluffy rice, make sure to rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming gummy.

3. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the onion and garlic to give the dish a slight kick.

4. For a richer dish, substitute a portion of the broth with a splash of dry white wine. Add the wine after toasting the rice, letting it cook off for a minute before adding the broth.

5. To enhance the cheesy flavor, reserve half of the Manchego cheese to sprinkle on top just before garnishing with parsley. The mix of melted and fresh cheese adds a delightful texture and taste contrast.