Arbëreshë-style Jerez Rice

Ingredients

In this Arbëreshë adaptation of Arroz al jerez, we incorporate traditional Arbëreshë ingredients and flavors to create a unique fusion dish. While the original Spanish recipe relies heavily on Spanish ingredients and spices, our version incorporates Arbëreshë herbs and spices, such as oregano and paprika, to infuse the dish with a distinct Mediterranean twist. Additionally, we use Arbëreshë rice, such as Arborio, to enhance the creaminess and texture of the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Arroz al jerez, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) Arborio rice 2 cups (400g) Arborio rice
• 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth
• 1 cup (240ml) Jerez wine 1 cup (240ml) Jerez wine
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 58g, 2g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the Arborio rice to the saucepan and stir well to coat the grains with the oil.
3. 3.
   Pour in the Jerez wine and cook until it is absorbed by the rice, stirring constantly.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the vegetable broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously until the liquid is absorbed before adding the next cup.
5. 5.
   Stir in the dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan.
6. 6.
   Allow the rice to simmer for about 20 minutes, or until it reaches a creamy consistency, stirring occasionally.
7. 7.
   Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before fluffing the rice with a fork.
8. 8.
   Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Arborio rice — Arborio rice is essential for achieving the creamy texture of this dish. Its high starch content helps create a velvety consistency. Avoid substituting with other rice varieties.
• Jerez wine — Choose a good-quality Jerez wine with a nutty flavor profile. If unavailable, you can substitute with a dry sherry or a white wine with a similar flavor profile.

Tips & Tricks

• For added richness, you can stir in a tablespoon of vegan butter or olive oil before serving.
• Customize the dish by adding sautéed vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, for extra flavor and texture.
• To make it a complete meal, serve the Arbëreshë-style Jerez Rice with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or sautéed shrimp.

Serving advice

Serve the Arbëreshë-style Jerez Rice as a main course accompanied by a fresh green salad or as a side dish alongside grilled meats or seafood. It pairs wonderfully with a glass of chilled Jerez wine to enhance the flavors.

Presentation advice

Present the Arbëreshë-style Jerez Rice in a large serving dish, garnished with fresh parsley. The vibrant colors of the dish will be visually appealing. Consider serving it family-style, allowing guests to help themselves and savor the enticing aroma.