Spanish Rice with Carrots

Spanish Rice with Carrots is a flavorful, one-pot dish where rice is toasted and then simmered in a savory tomato-based broth with diced carrots and aromatic spices. It's a staple side dish in Mexican-American cuisine and many Latin American kitchens, known for its vibrant orange-red color and comforting texture. The dish typically includes onions, garlic, and sometimes peas or bell peppers for added texture and nutrition.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is primarily a carbohydrate-rich side, providing energy from the rice and vegetables, with a moderate amount of fiber from the carrots and tomatoes. A typical serving offers key nutrients like vitamin A (from carrots), vitamin C (from tomatoes), and some iron, with a calorie range of approximately 200-250 per cup.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	230 kcal
Protein	4 g
Carbs	42 g
Fat	5 g
Fiber	3 g
Sugar	4 g
Sodium	480 mg
Vitamin A	120 mcg RAE
Vitamin C	8 mg
Iron	1.5 mg
Potassium	280 mg
Folate	45 mcg
Magnesium	25 mg
Manganese	0.6 mg
Selenium	8 mcg

Per 1 cup (200 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, Spanish Rice is a cornerstone of Tex-Mex and Mexican-American home cooking, often served alongside beans, enchiladas, or grilled meats. Nutritionally, the carrots not only add a natural sweetness but also significantly boost the dish's vitamin A content, which is essential for eye health.