TDawg's Spanish Rice

Although not that traditional, this is one of my favorite spanish rice recipes. It is more like a Mexican version of Jambalaya than a side dish.

INGREDIENTS

2 C. Uncle Bens / Minute Instant Rice
1 C. crumbled Bacon (packaged / precooked real bacon pieces are fine)
1 Lg. Onion, finely diced
1 Lg. Green Pepper, finely diced (can substitute Anaheim or Poblanos)
1 T. Minced Garlic
2 Cans Tomato sauce with bits (approx. 16 oz. cans)
1 to 2 T. Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 t. Onion Powder
1 t. Garlic Powder
1 t. Chili Powder
1 cube Chicken bullion
Black Pepper (to taste)
Cayenne Pepper (to taste)
Salt (to taste)
Cilantro, finely chopped for garnishing (optional)

Directions

Preheat oil in large sauté pan.
Sauté onion, green pepper and chopped bacon over medium heat until onion and green pepper are tender.
Add in garlic and continue sautéing for about 3 more minutes.
Add tomato sauce, spices and bullion and bring this mixture to a boil.
Add 2 C. Uncle Ben's Instant Rice while boiling.
Remove from heat, cover and allow to steam for 5 minutes.
Transfer to serving bowl and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.