Instant Pot Spanish Rice with Cumin and Smoked Paprika
This flavorful Spanish rice combines aromatic spices like cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika with chunky salsa for authentic taste and texture. Made entirely in the Instant Pot using the sauté and pressure cook functions, it delivers perfectly fluffy rice in just 5 minutes of pressure cooking. The key technique is layering the salsa on top without stirring to prevent the burn notification. Perfect as a side dish for Mexican meals, taco nights, or as a base for burrito bowls.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long grain ricejasmine rice1:1gluten-free
Works well but slightly stickier texture
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 garlic clove garlic clove, minced
- 1 cup chunky salsadiced tomatoes plus taco seasoning1 cup diced tomatoes plus 1 packet seasoninggluten-free
More control over spice level
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- 1
Turn on saute setting and add oil and rice, sauteing for 3 to 5 minutes while stirring frequently
- 2
Add garlic and saute for a few more minutes
- 3
Hit cancel button and add broth and spices, stirring well
- 4
Add salsa to the top without stirring
- 5
Close lid, turn nozzle to sealing, press pressure cook button on high pressure for 5 minutes
- 6
Let sit for 5 minutes after timer beeps, then turn nozzle to venting to release steam
- 7
Open lid and fluff rice with a fork before serving
Tips
Layer the salsa on top without stirring to prevent the Instant Pot burn notification - this is crucial for success.
Toast the rice in oil first to develop nutty flavor and help prevent mushy texture.
Use chunky salsa rather than smooth for better texture and flavor distribution in the finished rice.
Good to Know
Refrigerate for up to 4 days in airtight container
Can be made 1 day ahead and reheated with splash of broth
Serve hot as side dish or base for burrito bowls, topped with cilantro, cheese, or avocado
Common Mistakes
Do not stir the salsa into the rice mixture to avoid burn notification
Do not skip the natural pressure release time or rice may be undercooked
Substitutions
Vegan Options
Gluten-Free Swaps
More control over spice level
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but increase cooking time to 22 minutes and use 1.25 cups of broth for proper texture.
What if my Instant Pot shows burn notification?
Turn off, add more liquid, scrape bottom gently, and restart. Next time layer salsa without stirring.
How long will this Spanish rice keep in the refrigerator?
Store covered for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of broth to restore moisture.