Arroz con gandules – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Arroz con Gandules, a vibrant and flavorful rice dish from Puerto Rico, is a quintessential part of the island’s culinary tradition. This dish features rice cooked with pigeon peas, pork, and a blend of aromatic spices, all brought together with the aid of sofrito—a staple in Puerto Rican cooking. Each bite captures the rich heritage of Puerto Rican cuisine, making it a staple in festive celebrations and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- Pork shoulder, diced – 1/2 pound / 225 g
- Sofrito – 1/2 cup / 120 ml
- Tomato sauce – 1/4 cup / 60 ml
- Sazon with achiote – 1 packet
- Adobo seasoning – 1 tablespoon
- Pigeon peas (gandules), drained – 1 can / 15 oz / 425 g
- Medium-grain rice – 2 cups / 400 g
- Chicken broth – 3 1/2 cups / 840 ml
- Pimento-stuffed olives – 1/4 cup / 60 g
- Capers – 2 tablespoons
- Fresh cilantro, chopped – 1/4 cup / 15 g
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced pork shoulder and cook until browned.
- Stir in the sofrito, tomato sauce, sazon, and adobo seasoning. Cook for 2 minutes until aromatic.
- Add pigeon peas and rice to the pot, stirring to combine with the seasoned pork and sofrito.
- Pour in chicken broth, olives, and capers. Stir, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes, until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff rice with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Substitutions
- Pork shoulder -> Chicken thighs or turkey
- Medium-grain rice -> Long-grain or brown rice
- Chicken broth -> Vegetable broth
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Consider using homemade sofrito for fresher flavor.
- Add a pinch of cumin for extra depth.
- Incorporate a squeeze of lime juice for brightness.
- Garnish with plantain chips for additional texture.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
