John's Spanish Rice

I made my Dad's delicious Spanish rice recipe yesterday also & decided it definitely needs to be posted. It reminds me of home! So flavorful & yummy!!

1 cup uncooked rice
1/4 cup cooking oil
1 (15 oz.) can whole tomatoes or Ro-Tel (chop tomatoes & reserve liquid)
4 stalks celery, chopped
1/4 - 1/2 bell pepper, chopped
1/4 tsp. salt
1 onion, chopped
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
1/4 tsp. black pepper
1 jalapeno, chopped (optional)

-OR-

Instead of the spices, use 4 tsp. Fiesta Spanish Rice Seasoning

Heat the oil in a large frying pan that has a tight fitting lid. Add the rice and saute until lightly browned. Mix reserve tomato liquid with enough water to make 2 1/2 cups liquid; add to the rice and stir. Stir in chopped tomatoes, celery, bell pepper, onion, jalapeno (if desired), and the seasoning. Bring to a boil and cover. Lower heat and simmer 15-20 minutes until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff and serve.

Makes 8 servings.