Arroz amarillo has a delightful way of brightening up any meal. Picture a summer evening, plates are crowded around the picnic table, laughter fills the air, and the aroma of this sunny yellow rice wafts through your backyard. Whether you’re serving it with grilled chicken, black beans, or simply a refreshing salad, it’s the kind of dish that steals the show. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds.
Let’s dive into this vibrant and flavorful dish: arroz amarillo. Not only is it visually appealing with its striking golden hue, but it also packs a punch of flavor. This rice dish is a staple in many Latin American cuisines, acting as a perfect complement to proteins, stews, or simply enjoyed on its own. I’ve made this dish countless times, and each time, it brings comfort and satisfaction to my dinner table.
You Might Like These Recipes!
Perfect Hard Boiled Eggs Recipe
What is Arroz Amarillo Recipe?
Arroz amarillo, which translates to “yellow rice,” is a classic dish typically prepared using long-grain rice. The vibrant yellow color primarily comes from Bijol, an achiote-based seasoning, or turmeric for a more widely available option. It’s a dish that’s uncomplicated to prepare yet delivers on taste, making it a favorite in both home kitchens and at festive gatherings.
What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?
This dish is a celebration of flavors! You’ll find a lively combination of savory notes from sautéed veggies like onions and bell peppers alongside the sweetness of tomato sauce. The hint of garlic adds a delicious depth, while the spices round out the experience. It’s not too spicy, making it approachable for all taste buds but brimming with deliciousness that keeps you coming back for more.
Why You’ll Love This Dish?
There are countless reasons to fall in love with arroz amarillo. For starters, it’s super simple to make and comes together quickly. You’ll find it satisfying and hearty, whether served as a side or a main dish. It’s a flexible recipe that allows for creativity—you can easily swap in your favorite veggies or proteins, making it a versatile addition to any meal rotation. Trust me, this dish will become a family favorite!
The Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious arroz amarillo:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/3 cup diced yellow onion
– 1/3 cup diced green bell pepper
– 3-4 cloves minced garlic
– 1/2 cup canned peas, drained
– 4 ounces sliced jarred pimentos
– 8 ounces tomato sauce
– 2 cups long-grain rice, rinsed
– 3 1/2 cups water
– 1 chicken bouillon cube
– 1/8 teaspoon Bijol or turmeric
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
These ingredients come together to craft a wonderfully flavored rice that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients From :asassyspoon.com
How to Make Arroz Amarillo Recipe?
Making arroz amarillo is a straightforward process, and I love how quickly it comes together. You’ll be enjoying this flavorful dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s get into the step-by-step process of cooking it to perfection.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Wash and rinse your rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This step helps to remove excess starch, ensuring that your rice will be fluffy when cooked.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
In a Dutch oven or a saucepan with a lid, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add in the diced onion and green bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onions turn translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until the garlic is fragrant.
Step 3: Mix In the Additional Ingredients
Next, stir in the sliced pimentos along with the tomato sauce, mixing well to combine. Allow this mixture to cook together for one minute, then add in your rinsed rice, water, and chicken bouillon cube. Sprinkle in the Bijol (or turmeric), bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper—start with about 1/4 teaspoon of salt, as you can always adjust later.
Step 4: Bring to a Boil
Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot firmly with the lid and let it simmer. This is crucial—don’t lift the lid at all during this time. You want to keep all that flavorful steam locked in! Cook until the rice absorbs all the liquid and is tender, which should take about 15 minutes.
Step 5: Rest the Rice
After your rice has cooked, remove it from the heat but keep the lid on for another 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to firm up and ensures it’s evenly cooked.
Step 6: Fluff and Serve
When you’re ready to serve, remove the bay leaf and use a fork to fluff the rice gently. Avoid using a spoon, as that can make the rice mushy. There you go—an easy and vibrant arroz amarillo!
Tips
– Quality Ingredients: Use good-quality olive oil and fresh vegetables for the best flavor.
– Rinse Your Rice: Always rinse the rice to remove excess starch, ensuring a fluffy final product.
– Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to add your twist with spices like cumin or a dash of cayenne if you want a bit of heat.
– Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked chicken or shrimp when you stir in the rice.
– Let It Rest: Resting the rice after cooking is key to a perfect texture—trust me on this one!
How Can You Store This Arroz Amarillo Recipe?
If you happen to have leftovers (which are rarely a thing in my home!), let them cool completely before transferring the arroz amarillo to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider portioning it into freezer-safe bags. This way, you can thaw and enjoy some delicious homemade arroz amarillo any time you want!
If Some of the Ingredients Are Not Available in Your Pantry, What Are Some Alternative Choices You Can Consider?
– Bijol: If you don’t have Bijol on hand, turmeric or curry powder can offer a nice color and flavor alternative.
– Chicken Bouillon Cube: Use vegetable broth instead of water and bouillon for a vegetarian option.
– Pimentos: If jarred pimentos aren’t available, fresh roasted red peppers or even sun-dried tomatoes will work well.
– Long-Grain Rice: If you prefer a different texture, jasmine rice or basmati rice can be used, just adjust your cooking time accordingly.
– Green Bell Pepper: Feel free to substitute with red or yellow bell peppers for a sweeter flavor profile.
Nutrition Information
A standard serving of arroz amarillo contains approximately 250 calories, focusing on carbohydrates and a fair amount of fiber, especially if you add peas or proteins. The inclusion of olive oil offers healthy fats, making this dish a balanced choice for any meal.
Serving Suggestions
– With Grilled Chicken: Serve alongside juicy grilled chicken for a well-rounded meal.
– Tacos: Use as a filling in tacos for a delicious twist.
– With Black Beans: Pair it with seasoned black beans for a hearty vegetarian option.
– As a Side Dish: Make it a side to any Latin-inspired main dish.
– Add a Salad: Combine with a fresh green salad for a refreshing contrast.
What Other Substitute Can I Use in Arroz Amarillo Recipe?
– Rice: Try brown rice for a whole grain option; it just requires a longer cooking time and more liquid.
– Olive Oil: Coconut oil can be an interesting option for a slight flavor twist.
– Fresh Garlic: If out of fresh garlic, use garlic powder—just be mindful of the quantity, as it’s more concentrated.
– Bay Leaf: Thyme or oregano can substitute if you’re fresh out of bay leaves.
– Onion: If you have chives or shallots, they can add a unique flavor as a substitute for regular onions.
Conclusion
Arroz amarillo is one of those dishes that truly brings happiness to any meal. The vibrant color and delightful flavors can elevate anything from weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Plus, its ease of preparation makes it a staple in my kitchen that I return to again and again. I encourage you to give it a try; I promise it will become a cherished recipe in your collection! Happy cooking!
You Might Also Like These Latest Recipes!
Arroz Amarillo Recipe – Comfort Food Meals
Description
Let’s dive into this vibrant and flavorful dish: arroz amarillo. Not only is it visually appealing with its striking golden hue, but it also packs a punch of flavor. This rice dish is a staple in many Latin American cuisines, acting as a perfect complement to proteins, stews, or simply enjoyed on its own. I’ve made this dish countless times, and each time, it brings comfort and satisfaction to my dinner table.
Ingredient
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
-
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Wash and rinse your rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This step helps to remove excess starch, ensuring that your rice will be fluffy when cooked.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
-
In a Dutch oven or a saucepan with a lid, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add in the diced onion and green bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onions turn translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until the garlic is fragrant.
Step 3: Mix In the Additional Ingredients
-
Next, stir in the sliced pimentos along with the tomato sauce, mixing well to combine. Allow this mixture to cook together for one minute, then add in your rinsed rice, water, and chicken bouillon cube. Sprinkle in the Bijol (or turmeric), bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper—start with about 1/4 teaspoon of salt, as you can always adjust later.
Step 4: Bring to a Boil
-
Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot firmly with the lid and let it simmer. This is crucial—don’t lift the lid at all during this time. You want to keep all that flavorful steam locked in! Cook until the rice absorbs all the liquid and is tender, which should take about 15 minutes.
Step 5: Rest the Rice
-
After your rice has cooked, remove it from the heat but keep the lid on for another 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to firm up and ensures it's evenly cooked.
Step 6: Fluff and Serve
-
When you’re ready to serve, remove the bay leaf and use a fork to fluff the rice gently. Avoid using a spoon, as that can make the rice mushy. There you go—an easy and vibrant arroz amarillo!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 250kcal
Note
- Quality Ingredients: Use good-quality olive oil and fresh vegetables for the best flavor.
- Rinse Your Rice: Always rinse the rice to remove excess starch, ensuring a fluffy final product.
- Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to add your twist with spices like cumin or a dash of cayenne if you want a bit of heat.
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked chicken or shrimp when you stir in the rice.
- Let It Rest: Resting the rice after cooking is key to a perfect texture—trust me on this one!
