Puerto Rican Arroz con Gandules

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I recently prepared Puerto Rican Arroz con Gandules, and it was a truly comforting and flavorful experience! This iconic dish features rice cooked with pigeon peas (gandules), spices, and sometimes a hint of meat, making it a hearty meal perfect for gatherings or family dinners. The combination of seasonings gives it a vibrant color and delicious taste. Here’s how you can make this classic Puerto Rican dish at home:

Ingredients:​

• For the Rice:
  • 2 cups long-grain rice (such as basmati or jasmine)
  • 1 can (15 oz) gandules (pigeon peas), drained and rinsed
  • 3 cups water (or chicken broth for more flavor)
  • 1/4 cup sofrito (a blend of garlic, onion, bell pepper, and herbs)
  • 1/4 teaspoon saffron or achiote powder (for color)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional Ingredients:
  • 1/2 lb (about 225g) pork (such as pork shoulder), cut into small pieces (for added flavor)
  • 1/2 cup diced ham or bacon (optional)
  • 1/4 cup green olives (optional)

Instructions:​

1. Sauté the Aromatics:​

• In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. If using pork or ham, add it now and sauté until browned.
• Add the sofrito to the pot, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes fragrant.

2. Add the Rice:​

• Stir in the rice, making sure to coat it with the oil and sofrito. Sauté the rice for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to toast slightly.

3. Add Liquids and Seasonings:​

• Pour in the water or chicken broth, and add the gandules, saffron or achiote, salt, and pepper. If you’re using olives, add them here as well.
• Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.

4. Cook the Rice:​

• Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed all the liquid.
• Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to keep the steam trapped inside.

5. Fluff and Serve:​

• Once the rice is cooked, turn off the heat and let it sit for an additional 5-10 minutes before removing the lid.
• Fluff the rice with a fork and serve warm, garnished with additional olives or fresh herbs if desired.

Conclusion​

Puerto Rican Arroz con Gandules is a delicious and hearty dish that captures the essence of Puerto Rican cuisine. It’s perfect for family gatherings or as a comforting weeknight meal. The combination of spices, rice, and pigeon peas creates a wonderful harmony of flavors that will surely delight your taste buds. Enjoy this delicious taste of Puerto Rico!