Spicy Rice (Nando’s Inspired)

I’ve always loved rice – long before I ever got into weightlifting, there’s something so comforting about a bowl of rice. I love plain o’l white rice but let’s be honest, it can get a little boring sometimes. That’s why so I’m excited to share this spicy rice recipe. It’s my favorite way to take simple rice and turn it into something bold, flavorful, and far from ordinary.

This spicy rice is absolutely packed with flavor and delivers a perfect balance of heat and zest in every bite. The fluffy rice soaks up all the spices, creating a bold, vibrant, and downright irresistible dish. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you want to go back for seconds – or even thirds. Whether you pair it with grilled chicken, a hearty stew, or enjoy it on its own, this rice has a way of elevating every meal. It’s spicy, satisfying, and seriously delicious!

Key Ingredients

Rice- Long-grain rice works perfectly for this recipe because it cooks up light and fluffy, with each grain staying separate. Basmati or jasmine rice are great options if you want extra aroma. However, the cooking time and stock needed will vary slightly depending on the type of rice you use. Check out my top tips for more info on this.

Vegetable or chicken stock– The stock adds depth and richness to the rice. Use chicken stock for a heartier flavor or vegetable stock for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly option, or just use water.

Paprika– Paprika brings a mild smokiness and a subtle sweetness to the dish, enhancing the flavor. You can use smoked paprika for an extra kick.

Turmeric– I love how turmeric gives the rice a vibrant golden color and also adds an earthy, slightly peppery undertone.

Bell pepper– I like you use the red one for this recipe. Finely dice it for even cooking and easy mixing with the rice.

Carrots: Fresh, medium-sized carrots are ideal. They should be firm and sweet to enhance the dish’s flavor and texture.

Onions: Yellow onions work best for their balanced sweetness and savory flavor, but white or red onions can also be used for a slightly different taste.

Peas: Frozen peas are convenient and work great for this recipe.

How to make this delicious spicy rice

1. Prepare the vegetables: Dice the onions, red pepper, and carrots into small, even pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and blend seamlessly with the rice.

2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat a little oil in a large pan or pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and carrots, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3–5 minutes. Stir in the red pepper and cook for another 2 minutes.

3. Toast the spices: Add the paprika and turmeric to the pan, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds to release their flavors.

4. Cook the rice: Add the long-grain rice to the pan,(there is no need to wash it), and stir to coat it in the spices and vegetables. Pour in the vegetable or chicken stock and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

4. Add the peas: Stir in the peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking to warm them through without overcooking.

5. Fluff and serve: Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a chopstick, garnish, and serve hot.

Tips for the best spicy rice

Use the Right Rice-to-Liquid Ratio: Stick to the recommended ratio of rice to stock to ensure perfectly cooked, fluffy grains. Too much liquid can make the rice mushy, while too little can leave it undercooked. If you would like to use basmati or jasmine rice for this recipe, you will need 2 and 1/2 cups of hot chicken or veg stock. Also, rinse your basmati rice.

Toast the Spices: Briefly toasting the paprika and turmeric before adding the liquid enhances their flavors, giving the dish a deeper, more aromatic taste.

Don’t Stir While Simmering: Once the stock is added and the rice is simmering, avoid stirring. Stirring can release starch and cause the rice to clump.

Let It Rest: After cooking, let the rice sit off the heat with the lid on for 5–10 minutes. This allows the steam to finish cooking the rice and helps it absorb any remaining liquid.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this rice ahead of time?
Yes, spicy rice can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of water or stock to keep it moist.

2. How do I adjust the spice level?
To make it spicier, add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce. For a milder version, reduce the paprika or replace it with sweet paprika.

3. Can I make it vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock, and ensure all your spices and add-ins are plant-based.

4. Why is my rice mushy?
This happens if too much liquid is used or the rice is overcooked. Stick to the recommended liquid-to-rice ratio and cooking time for the best results.

5. Can I add more protein to the dish?
Certainly! You can mix in cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein.

6. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! For kids sensitive to spice, use sweet paprika or reduce the spices to make it milder.

What to serve with the rice

This Spicy Rice pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, some air-fried pork chops, roasted vegetables, hearty stews, or a crisp salad, and can be complemented with a cooling yogurt sauce, or topped with a fried egg.

How to store the rice

Refrigerate: Store the rice in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to keep the rice fresh and prevent it from absorbing other odors in the fridge.

Freeze: For longer storage, spicy rice can be frozen. Place it in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible. Label with the date, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheat Safely: When reheating, ensure the rice is piping hot all the way through. You can reheat it in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the oven. Add a splash of water or stock to prevent it from drying out.

Enjoy making this Spicy Rice (Nando’s Inspired), and don’t forget to explore more delicious recipes on our blog!