Arroz con Gandules (Rice with Pigeon Peas)

Ingredients

• 2 cups (400g) long-grain rice 2 cups (400g) long-grain rice
• 1 cup (200g) pigeon peas, cooked 1 cup (200g) pigeon peas, cooked
• 3 cups (710ml) water 3 cups (710ml) water
• 1/4 cup (60ml) annatto oil 1/4 cup (60ml) annatto oil
• 1/2 cup (120ml) sofrito 1/2 cup (120ml) sofrito
• 2 teaspoons (10g) salt 2 teaspoons (10g) salt
• 1/2 teaspoon (2g) black pepper 1/2 teaspoon (2g) black pepper
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 60g, 2g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. 2.
   In a large pot, heat the annatto oil over medium heat.
3. 3.
   Add the sofrito to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
4. 4.
   Stir in the rice and cook for another 2 minutes, ensuring each grain is coated with the sofrito.
5. 5.
   Add the cooked pigeon peas, water, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well.
6. 6.
   Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
7. 7.
   Simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
8. 8.
   Remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
9. 9.
   Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pigeon peas — If using dried pigeon peas, soak them overnight before cooking. If using canned pigeon peas, rinse them thoroughly before adding to the recipe.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, you can add a small piece of smoked ham or bacon to the sofrito while cooking.
• If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped chili pepper to the sofrito.
• Leftover Arroz con Gandules can be refrigerated and reheated the next day. It often tastes even better as the flavors have had time to meld together.

Serving advice

Arroz con Gandules is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or as a side dish. It pairs well with roasted pork, grilled chicken, or fried plantains. Serve it with a side of fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation of Arroz con Gandules, you can mold the rice into a round shape using a small bowl or ramekin. Flip it onto a plate and garnish with a sprig of fresh cilantro or parsley. This adds an elegant touch to the dish.