Cuba • Caribbean • medium • 55 mins
Cuba Arroz con Pollo
Description
Arroz con Pollo is a beloved Cuban dish that combines rice and chicken with a medley of spices and vegetables, creating a flavorful one-pot meal. It holds cultural significance as a staple in Cuban households, often served during family gatherings and celebrations.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 cups long-grain rice
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon saffron (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 cup pimento-stuffed olives, sliced
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and brown them on all sides. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are soft.
- Stir in the chopped tomatoes, cumin, paprika, and saffron. Cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes break down.
- Add the rice and stir to coat it with the vegetable mixture.
- Pour in the chicken broth, add the bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Return the browned chicken to the pot, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, add the frozen peas and olives, stir gently, cover, and cook for an additional 10 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 450 per serving
Servings: 6
Dietary: gluten-free
⚠️ Allergens: none
Health Benefits
Arroz con Pollo is a nutritious dish that provides a balanced mix of protein from the chicken, complex carbohydrates from the rice, and a variety of vitamins from the vegetables. The inclusion of olive oil adds healthy monounsaturated fats, which can support heart health. Additionally, garlic and cumin are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, contributing to overall wellness. Being gluten-free, it is suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities, making it a versatile option in diverse dietary contexts.
Cultural Significance
Arroz con Pollo is a dish that reflects the fusion of Spanish and African culinary traditions in Cuba. It is often associated with family gatherings and celebrations, symbolizing togetherness and hospitality.
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