[Percy's Mom]

We had a going away party for my brother last night (He's getting ready to go to Iraq.), and a couple of his friends are vegetarians. We were having a taco bar to go with the copius quantities of alcohol, and while the vegetarians coming were very happy with the refried beans, cheese, and veggies that I provided, I wanted another side dish for them beyond chips, salsa, and guacamole, so I made this Spanish (style) rice.

Spanish (style) Rice
1 onion - medium dice
2 cans Rotel or store brand diced tomatoes w/chiles
3C Jasmine rice
4C veggie broth
1pkg vegetarian meat substitute crumbles (optional - I used Morningstar brand)
olive oil
salt, pepper, chili powder to taste

In a wide pot with a lid, heat enough olive oil to cover the bottom of the pot and sautee the onions and crumbles. Season with a bit of salt, pepper, and chili powder. Stir in the tomatoes with their juice. Stir in rice, getting all of the grains thoroughly mixed in. Stir in broth and bring to a boil. Cover and turn pot to low and let simmer untouched for 15 minutes. Take pot off heat, and leave for 5-10 minutes, still covered. Fluff with a fork or wooden spoon and enjoy!

This is also really good with frozen corn kernels or a can of black beans (drained and rinsed) stirred in with the rice at the beginning. Bell peppers sauteed along with the onions would also be a nice addition, as would some cilantro or parsley mixed in at the end.