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Arroz Con Gandules Rice With Pigeon Peas Recipe

Experience the vibrant flavors of Puerto Rico with this authentic Arroz con Gandules recipe! Passed down through generations, this comforting dish features tender pigeon peas, savory ham, and a rich sofrito base. Discover the secret ingredient, Bijol, a vibrant yellow spice that adds a unique depth of color and flavor. While sourcing the ingredients might require a trip to your local Latin market (look for Goya brand gandules!), the incredible taste is worth the effort. Prepare to impress your family and friends with this guaranteed crowd-pleaser – a true taste of the island!

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 90 mins
Calories 633.3 kcal
Protein 45g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Arroz Con Gandules Rice With Pigeon Peas 79

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Arroz Con Gandules Rice With Pigeon Peas

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How to Make Arroz Con Gandules Rice With Pigeon Peas

  1. In a large pot, fry 4 ounces of salt pork in 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until lightly browned (about 5 minutes).
  2. Add 4 ounces of diced ham and continue frying for another 3-5 minutes, until lightly browned.
  3. Add 1 ½ cups of long-grain rice and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until lightly toasted.
  4. Stir in ¾ cup sofrito, ½ cup tomato sauce, and 1 (14.5 ounce) can of diced tomatoes.
  5. Add 1 (15 ounce) can of gandules (pigeon peas), drained, and 4 cups of water.
  6. Add ½ cup of green olives (pimiento stuffed, optional), 2 tablespoons of capers, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, ½ teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and a pinch of Bijol (or a pinch of turmeric for a similar effect).
  7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork before serving.
  8. **Sofrito (Prepare ahead):** Combine 1 bunch of cilantro, 1 red bell pepper, 1 medium onion, 1 green bell pepper, and 1 head of garlic in a blender. Blend until completely smooth.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

31 g

Sugar

22g

Fat

23g

Carbs

34g

Recipe Tags (Choose a tag and find related recipes!)

Time To Make Main Ingredient Cuisine Preparation North American Rice Mexican Pasta Rice And Grains Long Grain Rice 4 Hours Or Less