Cuban Imperial Rice Recipe: A Taste of Authentic Cuban Cuisine

Cuban cuisine has the delicious flavors and foods of the Caribbean, with unique ingredients and techniques. One of the classic Cuban recipes that continues to be popular is Cuban Imperial Rice, an exquisite dish packed with flavor. This classic creation is rich with juicy chicken, crispy potatoes, and a saucy tender rice. The resulting dish is both delicious and nutritious, with a variety of ingredients that are beneficial to health.

This elegant recipe was originated in the Imperial Villa of Trujillo, in Spain and has been a staple of Cuban cuisine for centuries. It was adapted to use the unique ingredients found in Cuba, including many delicious spices and tropical fruits. It is a recipe that is perfect for families and celebrations, as it can be made in large quantities. It is also ideal for a delicious dinner with friends, and can be cooked in under an hour.

This Cuban recipe has a grand variety of ingredients, but the star of the show is the rice. For the best results, it is essential to use high-quality long-grain white rice. Long grain white rice have a delicious aroma and are perfect for making Cuban rice dishes. Along with the rice, you will need homemade chicken stock, chicken, onions, garlic, bell peppers, tomato paste, potatoes, And peas. Additionally, a variety of spices and olive oil are needed to enhance the flavor of this classic Cuban dish.

Ingredients

To make this Authentic Cuban Imperial Rice Recipe you will need the following ingredients:

• 3 cups of long grain white rice
• 6 cups of homemade chicken stock
• 1 pound of chicken thighs, skinned and boned
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
• 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup of frozen peas
• 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon of paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 tablespoons of olive oil
• And sprinkled with parsley to garnish

Instructions

1. In a large heavy-bottomed pan, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic, diced onions and bell peppers and cook for 6 minutes or until the vegetables are softened
2. Add the chicken and cook, stirring constantly, until it is browned on all sides
3. Add the tomato paste and continue to cook for 2 more minutes
4. Then add the diced potatoes, chicken stock, bay leaf, paprika and cumin, and bring the mixture to a boil
5. When the mixture is boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are softened
6. Add the white long grain rice to the pan, along with the frozen peas. Cover the pan again and cook for an additional 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the excess liquid has been absorbed
7. Finally, remove the pot from heat and let sit for 5 minutes to cool before serving
8. Sprinkle with parsley and serve

Variations

This recipe is highly versatile and can be adapted to each person’s taste. Some families vary the recipe by cooking the rice separately on the side and then mixing it with the hot simmered chicken mixture. Other adaptations include adding different vegetables such as carrots, corn or green beans. For those who prefer a milder flavor, it is best to omit the tomato paste and onions.

Conclusion

Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply want to enjoy a delicious Cuban dish, Cuban Imperial Rice is a great choice. It is a delightful and nutritious recipe that brings together an assortment of ingredients to create a unique and rich flavor. The blend of saucy rice, potatoes and chicken make for an appetizing dish that is sure to please your dining guests. Try this Authentic Cuban Imperial Rice Recipe today to experience the wonderful flavors of Cuban cuisine.