Arroz de matanzas – 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.
Country: 
Spain Region / Locale: Ibiza Servings: Serves 6
Spain Region / Locale: Ibiza Servings: Serves 6Arroz de Matanzas is a traditional dish with deep roots in Spanish culinary traditions, particularly from the region of Majorca. This rice dish is known for its rich, meaty depth of flavor, combining ingredients like pork, sausage, and a medley of local vegetables. It embodies the rustic yet flavorful approach of Spanish countryside cooking, reflecting the resourceful use of every part of an animal traditionally during the ‘matanzas’, or the winter pig slaughter.
Ingredients
- short-grain rice – 2 cups / 400 g
- pork shoulder – 300 g, diced
- pork ribs – 300 g, cut into pieces
- chorizo – 150 g, sliced
- red bell pepper – 1 large, chopped
- green bell pepper – 1 large, chopped
- tomatoes – 400 g, diced
- onion – 1 large, diced
- garlic – 4 cloves, minced
- paprika – 1 tablespoon
- saffron threads – a pinch
- chicken stock – 1 liter
- olive oil – 3 tablespoons
- salt – to taste
- black pepper – to taste
- fresh parsley – for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large paella pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the pork shoulder and ribs, then cook until browned on all sides.
- Add the chorizo slices and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Push the meat to one side of the pan; add the onions and cook until soft.
- Stir in the garlic, bell peppers, and diced tomatoes; cook until tender.
- Stir in the paprika and saffron threads, allowing them to bloom.
- Add the rice to the pan, stirring well to coat each grain in the spices and oils.
- Pour in the chicken stock, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked.
- Remove from heat and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Substitutions
- pork shoulder -> chicken thighs
- red bell pepper -> yellow bell pepper
- chorizo -> spicy sausage
- saffron -> turmeric
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Marinate the meat overnight with paprika, garlic, and olive oil for added depth of flavor.
- Use homemade chicken stock to enhance the dish’s richness.
- Add a splash of white wine for an aromatic twist.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
