Arroz Con Gandules: A Flavorful One-Dish Meal
Description
Arroz Con Gandules, or Rice with Pigeon Peas, is a delightful dish that embodies the vibrant flavors of South American cuisine, making it a beloved staple in many households. This dish is not just a meal in itself; it can also serve as a hearty side dish alongside your favorite proteins. Whether you are preparing a cozy family dinner or hosting friends, this comforting and nutritious dish is sure to satisfy both adults and children alike. With its rich combination of rice, beans, and savory ingredients, Arroz Con Gandules is particularly toddler-friendly and budget-conscious, making it a fantastic option for everyday dining.
Recipe Details
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 45 minutes |
| Category | One Dish Meal |
| Servings | 6 |
| Rating | 4.5 (2 reviews) |
| Calories | 652.1 |
| Fat Content | 6.6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.1 g |
| Cholesterol | 0.3 mg |
| Sodium | 574.5 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 124.9 g |
| Fiber | 12.8 g |
| Sugar | 1.4 g |
| Protein | 22.7 g |
Keywords
- White Rice
- Rice
- Colombian
- South American
- Toddler Friendly
- Kid Friendly
- Less than 60 Minutes
- Stove Top
- Inexpensive
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice | 3 cups |
| Water | 6 cups |
| Onion | 1 (chopped) |
| Green Bell Pepper | 1 (chopped) |
| Garlic Clove | 1 (minced) |
| Capers | 1 tablespoon |
| Cilantro | 1/4 cup (chopped) |
| Chorizo Sausage | 2 (sliced) |
| Chicken Bouillon Cubes | 1/2 cube |
| Ground Cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh Cilantro (for garnish) | 3 sprigs |
Instructions
-
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: In a large, thick-bottomed pot, heat a generous amount of oil over medium heat. The oil will serve as the base for sautéing your vegetables and proteins, helping to bring out their natural flavors.
-
-
Sauté the Vegetables: Once the oil is shimmering and hot, introduce the chopped onion and green bell pepper into the pot. Allow these aromatic vegetables to sauté for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally until they become tender and fragrant.
-
Incorporate the Flavor Makers: To the pot, add the gandules (pigeon peas), chopped cilantro, minced garlic, capers, olives, and sliced chorizo. Continue to sauté the mixture for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently until the onions become translucent and the peppers soften beautifully.
-
Build the Broth: Pour in the water, and then add the chicken bouillon cubes, ground cumin, salt, and paprika. Increase the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a gentle boil, ensuring that the bouillon cubes fully dissolve into the broth, imparting a depth of flavor to your dish.
-
Introduce the Rice: Once the broth is bubbling, carefully stir in the rice. Allow the pot to return to a boil, uncovered, for approximately 3 minutes. This step helps to ensure that the rice begins to absorb the flavorful broth.
-
Cilantro Infusion: Lay the sprigs of fresh cilantro across the top of the rice, taking care to distribute them evenly and not clumping them together. This step allows the cilantro to infuse its aromatic qualities into the dish while cooking.
-
Simmer to Perfection: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and let it simmer undisturbed for about 25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid. Avoid lifting the lid during this time, as the steam is essential for cooking the rice evenly.
-
Final Touches: Once the rice has finished cooking and is perfectly tender, carefully remove the cilantro sprigs from the top. Use a large spoon to fluff the rice gently, ensuring the ingredients are well mixed and evenly distributed.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Your Arroz Con Gandules is now ready to be served! This delightful dish can be enjoyed as a stand-alone meal or as a savory side, paired with your choice of proteins, such as grilled chicken, pork, or fish. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and comforting essence of this traditional South American dish that is sure to please everyone at the table.
With its simple yet flavorful ingredients, Arroz Con Gandules is a wonderful way to bring a taste of Colombia into your kitchen, creating cherished memories around the dinner table with loved ones. Enjoy the experience of cooking and sharing this hearty meal with your family and friends, and watch as they fall in love with its wholesome goodness!
