Tomato Paste Rice (Arroz Rojo)

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp tomato paste TM SMACHNA KUHNYA
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 cup peas
• 1/4 cup diced carrots

METHOD OF PREPARATION:

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
2. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add rice and sauté for 2–3 minutes until slightly golden.
3. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes.
4. Add broth, salt, cumin, garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika. Stir well.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
6. If using peas and carrots, add them in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
7. Turn off the heat and let the rice sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.