Arroz con Salsa de Cilantro
A vibrant and flavorful rice dish where fluffy white rice is infused with a bright, herbaceous cilantro sauce, offering a refreshing twist on traditional Puerto Rican rice preparations. It's often served as a side dish to complement grilled meats or seafood.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Long-grain white rice
- 4 cups Water
- 2 cups Fresh cilantro(packed)
- 4 cloves Garlic cloves
- 0.5 medium Green bell pepper(seeded and roughly chopped)
- 2 tablespoons Lime juice
- 3 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1.5 teaspoons Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper(freshly ground, or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons Sofrito(optional, for added depth)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the rice under cold running water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
💡 Tip: Rinsing removes excess starch, leading to fluffier rice. - 2
In a blender or food processor, combine the fresh cilantro, garlic cloves, chopped green bell pepper, lime juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Blend until a smooth, vibrant green sauce forms.
💡 Tip: If the mixture is too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time until desired consistency is reached. - 3
In a medium saucepan or caldero, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. If using, add the sofrito and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 4
Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and stir for about 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the grains.
- 5
Pour in the water and bring to a boil. Stir in the prepared cilantro sauce. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
💡 Tip: Ensure the cilantro sauce is well incorporated into the liquid. - 6
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan tightly, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
💡 Tip: Avoid lifting the lid during simmering to maintain steam. - 7
Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5-10 minutes. Fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving.
💡 Tip: Fluffing helps to separate the grains and ensures an even texture.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a pinch of cumin to the cilantro sauce.
- ✓If you don't have green bell pepper, a small piece of jalapeño (seeds removed) can be used for a touch of heat.
- ✓This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or pork.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a tablespoon of achiote oil for a beautiful golden hue.
- Stir in some cooked peas or corn during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added color and texture.