Sicilian-style Maize Rice

Ingredients

In the Sicilian-style Maize Rice, we adapt the Latin American arroz con maiz to Sicilian cuisine by incorporating traditional Sicilian flavors and ingredients. We replace some of the Latin American spices with Sicilian herbs such as oregano and basil. Additionally, we use saffron to give the rice a distinct Sicilian touch and enhance its golden color. The addition of Parmesan cheese is also a Sicilian influence, adding richness and depth to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Arroz con maiz, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) Arborio rice 2 cups (400g) Arborio rice
• 1 cup (150g) sweet corn kernels 1 cup (150g) sweet corn kernels
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil 1 teaspoon dried basil
• A pinch of saffron threads A pinch of saffron threads
• 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking Olive oil for cooking

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 4g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 65g, 5g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the diced red bell pepper and zucchini to the pot, and cook for a few minutes until they start to soften.
3. 3.
   Stir in the Arborio rice, dried oregano, dried basil, and saffron threads. Cook for a minute, stirring constantly to coat the rice with the flavors.
4. 4.
   Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
5. 5.
   Once the rice is cooked, stir in the sweet corn kernels and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. 6.
   Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. 7.
   Serve the Sicilian-style Maize Rice hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Arborio rice — Rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch and achieve a fluffier texture.
• Saffron threads — To enhance the flavor and color, soak the saffron threads in a tablespoon of warm water for a few minutes before adding them to the dish.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more pronounced Sicilian flavor, add a pinch of dried chili flakes to the dish.
• You can customize the vegetables in this recipe based on what is in season or your personal preferences. Try adding eggplant, cherry tomatoes, or peas for variation.
• To make the dish more substantial, you can add cooked shrimp or diced chicken.
• If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a tablespoon of butter at the end of cooking.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day. Reheat in a pan with a splash of vegetable broth to refresh the flavors.

Serving advice

Serve the Sicilian-style Maize Rice as a main course accompanied by a fresh green salad or a side of roasted vegetables. It can also be served as a side dish alongside grilled fish or chicken.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, garnish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Serve it in a colorful ceramic bowl or on a rustic wooden platter to showcase the vibrant colors of the rice and vegetables.