Arroz con Piña y Cerdo
A delightful rice dish combining sweet pineapple with savory pork, creating a balanced and tropical flavor profile. This dish is often prepared for special occasions and family gatherings, showcasing the use of local fruits and meats.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 lb Pork shoulder(cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 2 cups Long-grain white rice
- 2 cups Fresh pineapple(diced)
- 1 medium Yellow onion(chopped)
- 1 medium Red bell pepper(chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 3.5 cups Chicken broth
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp Soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Brown sugar
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 0.25 cup Cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Season pork cubes with salt and pepper.
💡 Tip: Ensure all sides of the pork are seasoned. - 2
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the pork cubes on all sides. Remove pork and set aside.
⏱️ 6-8 minutes - 3
Add chopped onion and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté until softened.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
⏱️ 1 minute - 5
Add the white rice to the pot and stir to coat the grains with the oil and aromatics. Toast the rice for 1-2 minutes.
⏱️ 2 minutes💡 Tip: Toasting rice enhances its nutty flavor. - 6
Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Stir well to combine.
💡 Tip: Taste the liquid and adjust seasoning if needed. - 7
Return the browned pork to the pot. Add the diced pineapple.
💡 Tip: Using fresh pineapple is recommended for the best flavor and texture. - 8
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
⏱️ 20-25 minutes💡 Tip: Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to allow steam to cook the rice evenly. - 9
Once cooked, let the rice stand, covered, for 5-10 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
⏱️ 10 minutes💡 Tip: This resting period allows the rice to finish steaming and become fluffy. - 10
Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before serving.
💡 Tip: Serve hot as a main course.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can marinate the pork in soy sauce and a little garlic for 30 minutes before cooking.
- ✓If using canned pineapple, drain it well and consider reducing the added sugar slightly.
- ✓Ensure the rice is cooked through; if not, add a splash more broth and continue simmering.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other vegetables like peas or carrots for extra color and nutrients.
- Substitute shrimp or chicken for pork.
- A touch of ginger can add a nice warmth to the dish.