When many people think of Cuban food, they immediately imagine classic dishes like ropa vieja, black beans and rice, and Cuban sandwiches. However, one dish that is equally as popular but often overlooked is Cuban Yellow Rice, also known as Arroz Amarillo. A vibrantly colored and flavorful rice dish, Cuban Yellow Rice is the perfect accompaniment to a wide range of Cuban main dishes and is both simple and fun to make at home.
If you’re not a fan of dull, uninteresting grains of rice, then you’ll love Cuban Yellow Rice. It’s a vibrant, flavorful dish that is sure to liven up any meal. Made with saffron, cumin, and garlic, Cuban Yellow Rice features a beautiful golden hue and a lovely aroma. Plus, the addition of peas adds a pop of color and flavor that brings the dish to the next level.
If you’re ready to try your hand at making Cuban Yellow Rice, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll show you how to make this authentic Cuban dish right in your own home. Before you know it, you’ll be dining on a delicious plate of Arroz Amarillo.
Ingredients
For the Rice:
– 2 cups of long-grain white rice
– 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of saffron strands
– 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2.5 cups of chicken stock
For the Vegetables:
– 1 cup of frozen peas
– 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
Method
Step 1: Rinse the Rice
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps to remove any surface starch, which will prevent the rice from turning into a sticky mess once it’s cooked.
Step 2: Prep the Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen peas and diced red bell pepper. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Saffron and Cumin
In a small bowl, combine the saffron strands and cumin. Place the bowl on the side and let the flavors meld while you cook.
Step 4: Cook the Rice
In a large pot over medium heat, pour in the extra virgin olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the rinsed rice and cook, stirring often, for 3-5 minutes, or until the rice is lightly golden.
Once the rice is golden, add the saffron and cumin mixture and stir to combine. Add the salt and pepper and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Add the chicken stock and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover. Cook for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
Step 5: Mix in the Peas and Bell Pepper
About 5 minutes before the rice is done, lift the lid and add in the frozen peas and diced bell pepper. Stir to combine. Cover and continue cooking until the rice is done.
Serving Suggestions
Cuban Yellow Rice can be served as a side dish or as the main course. Most commonly, it is served with classic Cuban dishes like ropa vieja and black beans, as well as with simple roasted meats or fish.
If you’re looking for an extra special treat, try serving your Cuban Yellow Rice with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime. This brightens up the dish and adds an extra layer of flavor.
Now that you know how to make this classic Cuban dish, it’s time to give it a try. Gather up the ingredients and get started – you won’t be disappointed. Before you know it, you’ll be dining on a plate of delicious Arroz Amarillo, ready to be enjoyed.
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