Latin American > Puerto Rican

Arroz con Gandules with Pork Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups of long-grain rice
- 4 cups of water
- 1 can of gandules (pigeon peas), drained and rinsed
- 1 pound of pork shoulder, cut into small cubes
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro

Special equipment needed:
- Large pot with a lid
- Wooden spoon

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.

2. Add the bell pepper, onion, and garlic to the pot and cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.

3. Add the cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper to the pot and stir to combine.

4. Add the rice to the pot and stir to coat the rice with the spices and vegetables.

5. Add the water and gandules to the pot and stir to combine.

6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.

7. Cook the rice for 20-25 minutes, or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender.

8. Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.

9. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the chopped cilantro.


- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat for cooking the pork and vegetables
- Low heat for cooking the rice
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 6 people

Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 380
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Protein: 19g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Chicken can be used instead of pork
- Red bell pepper can be used instead of green bell pepper
- Fresh oregano can be used instead of dried oregano

Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of tomato sauce to the pot before adding the water for a richer flavor
- Use brown rice instead of white rice for a healthier option

Tips and tricks:
- Rinse the rice before adding it to the pot to remove excess starch
- Use a wooden spoon to stir the rice to prevent it from sticking to the pot
- Let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld together

Storage instructions:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days

Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent the rice from drying out

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the arroz con gandules with pork in a large serving bowl or on individual plates

Garnishes:
- Sprinkle chopped cilantro or green onions on top of the rice for a pop of color and flavor

Pairings:
- Serve with a side of fried plantains or a simple green salad

Suggested side dishes:
- Fried plantains
- Green salad

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the rice is still hard after cooking, add a splash of water and continue cooking until tender
- If the rice is too dry, add a splash of water and stir to combine

Food safety advice:
- Make sure the pork is cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F to ensure it is safe to eat

Food history:
- Arroz con gandules with pork is a traditional Puerto Rican dish that is often served during the holidays and special occasions

Flavor profiles:
- This dish is savory and slightly spicy with a hint of sweetness from the gandules

Serving suggestions:
- Serve the arroz con gandules with pork as a main dish for lunch or dinner

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Region: Puerto Rican

Taste: Savory, Tangy, Spicy, Salty, Aromatic