SPANISH RICE

 4 tomatoes, cored and quartered

• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 2 cups long-grain white rice, rinsed 
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pepper, minced (optional) no seeds
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth 
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• ½ cup minced fresh cilantro or parsley
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DIRECTIONS:

1. Adjust an oven rack to the middle position and preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a food processor or blender, puree the tomatoes and onions until smooth. Measure 2 cups of puree, pouring off and discarding any excess.
3. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven or a 3-quart saucepan until sizzles . Add the rice and sauté, stirring frequently, until light golden in color, about 10 to 15 minutes.
4. Add garlic and jalapeños (if using) and stir until fragrant, about 15 seconds. Stir in tomato mixture, broth, tomato paste, and 1 ½ tsp. salt. Bring to a boil.
5. Cover and bake until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed, about 30 minutes. Stir halfway through baking time.
6. Fluff rice with a fork. Fold in cilantro or parsley and season to taste with salt and pepper.