Arroz con Loroco
Arroz con Loroco is a fragrant and flavorful Salvadoran rice dish that incorporates loroco, a native edible flower with a distinctive aroma and taste. This dish is often served as a side or a main course, showcasing a unique floral note.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Long-grain white rice
- 4 cups Water or chicken broth
- 0.5 cup Loroco flowers(rinsed and roughly chopped (fresh or frozen))
- 0.5 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(or to taste)
- 0.5 cup Optional: Peas(frozen)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
💡 Tip: Rinsing removes excess starch, preventing sticky rice. - 2
In a medium saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
⏱️ 1 minute - 4
Stir in the rinsed rice, coating it with the oil and aromatics. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 5
Pour in the water or chicken broth. Add the salt and pepper. Bring to a boil.
💡 Tip: Using broth will add more depth of flavor. - 6
Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the saucepan tightly, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
⏱️ 20 minutes - 7
Gently stir in the chopped loroco flowers and optional peas. Cover and let stand for 5 minutes off the heat to allow the loroco to steam and the flavors to meld.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 8
Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot.
💡 Tip: Ensure loroco is evenly distributed throughout the rice.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓If using frozen loroco, do not thaw before adding to the rice.
- ✓Loroco has a unique flavor; if you can't find it, this dish will be different but still good with just the aromatics.
- ✓This dish pairs well with grilled meats or as a vegetarian main.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of turmeric for a golden hue.
- Incorporate sautéed mushrooms for added texture and flavor.