Saffron-Infused Pigeon Peas Rice - Arroz Con Gandules
Experience the vibrant flavors of Puerto Rico with this Saffron-Infused Pigeon Peas Rice recipe. Arroz Con Gandules is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of culinary heritage. Pigeon peas, a staple in Caribbean cuisine, bring a unique texture and nutty flavor that perfectly complements the fluffy rice. Combined with the aromatic sofrito and savory ham, each bite transports you to an island paradise. Perfect for family gatherings or any occasion, this dish showcases the rich traditions of Puerto Rican cooking. Serve it alongside your favorite protein or enjoy it on its own for a hearty meal.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Olive oil
1 tablespoon (N/A)
Sofrito sauce
1/2 cup (N/A)
Chopped ham or cooked pork pieces
1/2 cup (Chop into small pieces)
Long-grain rice
2 cups (Rinse and drain)
Water
4 cups (N/A)
Goya sazón seasoning
1 1/4 ounces (Found in Latin markets)
Canned pigeon peas
1 (15 ounce) can (Drain and rinse)
Instructions
1
1. In a 6-quart pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the sofrito sauce and chopped ham, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2
2. Stir in the rinsed rice, ensuring it's well-coated with the oil and sofrito mixture.
3
3. Add the water, sazón seasoning, and the rinsed pigeon peas to the pot, stirring occasionally.
4
4. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Allow it to boil for 2 to 3 minutes without stirring.
5
5. Lower the heat to medium-low and cover the pot tightly with a lid (avoid using vented lids). Cook for 35 to 40 minutes without lifting the lid.
6
6. When the cooking time is complete, remove the pot from the heat. Allow it to sit covered for an additional 5 minutes to finish steaming.
7
7. Gently fluff the rice with a fork before serving, making sure the pigeon peas are evenly distributed throughout.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Saffron-Infused Pigeon Peas Rice?
Saffron-Infused Pigeon Peas Rice, or Arroz Con Gandules, is a vibrant Puerto Rican dish featuring rice, nutty pigeon peas, aromatic sofrito, and savory ham.
How many servings does this Arroz Con Gandules recipe make?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
What type of rice should I use?
Long-grain rice is recommended for this recipe, and it should be rinsed and drained before cooking.
What are pigeon peas?
Pigeon peas are a staple in Caribbean cuisine that provide a unique texture and nutty flavor to the rice.
What is sofrito sauce?
Sofrito is an aromatic base used in Puerto Rican cooking, usually made from peppers, onions, garlic, and herbs.
Can I substitute the ham in this recipe?
Yes, you can use cooked pork pieces as a substitute for the chopped ham.
How much water is needed for the rice?
You will need 4 cups of water for 2 cups of long-grain rice.
What is Goya sazón seasoning?
Goya sazón is a Latin seasoning blend that provides color and flavor, often found in the ethnic or Latin aisle of markets.
Do I need to rinse the canned pigeon peas?
Yes, the 15-ounce can of pigeon peas should be drained and rinsed before being added to the pot.
What size pot should I use?
A 6-quart pot is recommended for preparing this recipe.
How long do I sauté the sofrito and ham?
Sauté the sofrito and chopped ham in olive oil for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Should the rice be coated in oil before adding water?
Yes, stir the rinsed rice into the sofrito and ham mixture to ensure it is well-coated before adding liquids.
How long should I boil the mixture?
Bring the mixture to a rolling boil and let it boil for 2 to 3 minutes without stirring.
What is the correct simmering temperature?
Lower the heat to medium-low for the simmering phase.
Why should I avoid using a vented lid?
A non-vented lid is used to ensure the steam stays inside the pot to properly cook the rice.
How long does the rice need to simmer?
The rice should simmer covered for 35 to 40 minutes.
Can I lift the lid while the rice is simmering?
No, you should avoid lifting the lid during the 35 to 40-minute cooking time.
What should I do after the cooking time is complete?
Remove the pot from the heat and allow it to sit covered for an additional 5 minutes to finish steaming.
How do I serve the Arroz Con Gandules?
Gently fluff the rice with a fork before serving to ensure the pigeon peas are evenly distributed.
Is this recipe considered a one-dish meal?
Yes, it is categorized as a One Dish Meal but can also be served alongside other proteins.
How much olive oil is required?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
What does the sazón seasoning add to the dish?
It provides a deep color and a distinct savory flavor profile characteristic of Puerto Rican rice.
Is this dish suitable for family gatherings?
Yes, it is described as perfect for family gatherings and showcasing rich culinary traditions.
What is the preparation for the ham?
The ham should be chopped into small pieces before being added to the pot.
Does the recipe use dried or canned pigeon peas?
This specific recipe uses one 15-ounce can of pigeon peas.
What is the ratio of rice to water?
The ratio used here is 1 part rice to 2 parts water (2 cups rice to 4 cups water).
Is this recipe spicy?
No, the flavors are vibrant and aromatic but generally not spicy unless hot peppers are added to the sofrito.
What makes this dish 'Saffron-Infused'?
The yellow-orange color and aromatic notes provided by the sazón seasoning mimic the qualities of saffron.
Can I use brown rice instead?
This recipe is designed for long-grain white rice; using brown rice would require significantly more water and a longer cooking time.
What are the main flavor profiles of this dish?
The dish is characterized by nutty, savory, and aromatic flavors with a hearty texture.