Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the vegetables into small, uniform pieces. This helps ensure even cooking. As I chop, I can’t help but appreciate the vivid colors. It’s almost like creating a piece of art!

In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the onions and sauté until they're translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Next, throw in the garlic, celery, and Serrano pepper. Sauté them until fragrant. Trust me, your kitchen will start smelling amazing!

Stir in the bell peppers, carrots, and peas (if using). Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Make sure to stir occasionally. This process enhances the flavors and softens those crunchy bits.

Once the veggies are tender, sprinkle in the oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne. Stir well. These spices are the backbone of your dish. They introduce warmth and depth that transforms an ordinary rice dish into something spectacular.

Now it’s time to add the rice. Stir it in so it gets coated in those delicious spices and oil. Then, pour in the tomato purée and vegetable broth. Mix everything thoroughly. This step is vital for ensuring that the rice absorbs all those incredible flavors.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes. This is where the magic happens. The rice absorbs the liquid and flavors. If you need to add more liquid for the desired consistency, it’s okay to adjust!

Once the rice is tender, remove the saucepan from the heat. Let it rest for a few minutes, then fluff it gently with a fork. This keeps the rice grains separated and light. Now you’re ready to serve!