Arroz Verde
Arroz Verde is a vibrant, flavorful dish that celebrates the bounty of fresh herbs and vegetables, creating a perfect pairing for any meal. This green rice dish, known for its striking color and fresh taste, is not only a feast for the eyes but also a nutritious and delicious addition to your table. With a rich blend of parsley, cilantro, and poblano chiles, Arroz Verde offers a unique twist to traditional rice dishes. This recipe is simple to follow and incredibly satisfying, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Why This Recipe Works
This Arroz Verde recipe stands out because it harnesses the natural flavors of fresh herbs and spices, elevating plain rice into something extraordinary. The combination of parsley and cilantro creates a bright green puree that infuses the rice with a refreshing taste. By using poblano chiles, the dish gains a subtle heat and depth of flavor without overwhelming the palate. The use of chicken stock enhances the overall richness, ensuring that every grain of rice is packed with flavor. The method of cooking the rice in this vibrant green broth results in perfectly cooked, fluffy rice that pairs beautifully with a variety of proteins or can be enjoyed on its own as a satisfying vegetarian option.
Ingredients at a Glance
- 3/4 cup fresh parsley, roughly chopped and lightly packed
- 3/4 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped and lightly packed
- 2 poblano chiles, seeded and chopped
- 3 tablespoons diced onion
- 2 garlic cloves, peeled and chopped
- 2 1/4 cups chicken stock (divided: 1/2 cup for the puree and the remainder for cooking)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
- Salt to taste
Equipment & Tools
- Blender or food processor – for making the green puree.
- Medium saucepan – for cooking the rice.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measurements.
- Cutting board and knife – for chopping vegetables and herbs.
Cooking Arroz Verde: The Process
Step 1: Prepare the Green Puree
Begin by gathering the fresh parsley, cilantro, poblano chiles, onion, and garlic. In a blender or food processor, combine the parsley, cilantro, poblano chiles, onion, garlic, and 1/2 cup of chicken stock. Blend until smooth, creating a vibrant green puree that will infuse the rice with incredible flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the green puree to the pan. Sauté the mixture for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the mixture to reduce slightly. This step will intensify the flavors of the herbs and vegetables.
Step 3: Add the Rice
Rinse the long-grain white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming gummy. Once rinsed, add the rice to the saucepan, stirring well to coat the grains with the green mixture.
Step 4: Cook the Rice
Pour in the remaining 1 3/4 cups of chicken stock and season with salt to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan with a lid and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.
Step 5: Fluff and Serve
Once the rice is cooked, remove the saucepan from heat. Allow it to sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. Then, uncover and fluff the rice gently with a fork. Serve Arroz Verde warm as a delicious side dish or as a flavorful base for grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
Holiday & Seasonal Touches
- For a festive touch, serve Arroz Verde alongside grilled chicken or fish during summer barbecues.
- Incorporate seasonal vegetables like peas or corn for added sweetness and texture during the spring.
- Top with crumbled feta or cotija cheese for a creamy contrast to the vibrant green rice.
- Serve it as part of a colorful spread during holiday gatherings, showcasing a variety of dishes like Cilantro Lime Rice or Pineapple Fried Rice.
Cook’s Notes
- For a spicier version, leave some seeds in the poblano chiles or add a jalapeño to the puree.
- This recipe can easily be doubled for larger gatherings or meal prep for the week.
- Feel free to experiment with other herbs like mint or basil for a unique twist on the traditional flavors.
- Arroz Verde pairs well with proteins such as grilled shrimp, chicken, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
How to Store & Reheat
Store any leftover Arroz Verde in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to reheat, add a splash of chicken stock or water to the rice to prevent it from drying out. Heat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month; just ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Common Qs About Arroz Verde
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but the cooking time will need to be adjusted. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook, so be sure to check the package instructions and increase the liquid accordingly.
What can I serve with Arroz Verde?
Arroz Verde is versatile and pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as a base for a hearty bean salad. It can also be served alongside dishes like Shrimp Fried Rice for a fusion feast.
Is Arroz Verde suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Arroz Verde holds up well in the refrigerator, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Just store it in portioned containers for quick and easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Can I make Arroz Verde vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegan by substituting the chicken stock with vegetable stock and omitting any animal proteins served alongside it.
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Let’s Eat
Arroz Verde is a delightful dish that not only brings color to your plate but also a burst of flavor to your meals. With its fresh herbs and simple cooking method, this green rice is bound to become a favorite in your household. Embrace the vibrant flavors of this dish, and don’t hesitate to experiment with it to make it your own. Whether enjoyed alongside your favorite proteins or as a stand-alone dish, Arroz Verde is sure to impress your family and friends at the dinner table. Enjoy every bite!
Arroz Verde
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by gathering the fresh parsley, cilantro, poblano chiles, onion, and garlic. In a blender or food processor, combine the parsley, cilantro, poblano chiles, onion, garlic, and 1/2 cup of chicken stock. Blend until smooth, creating a vibrant green puree that will infuse the rice with incredible flavor.
- In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the green puree to the pan. Sauté the mixture for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the mixture to reduce slightly.
- Rinse the long-grain white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Once rinsed, add the rice to the saucepan, stirring well to coat the grains with the green mixture.
- Pour in the remaining 1 3/4 cups of chicken stock and season with salt to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan with a lid and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.
- Once the rice is cooked, remove the saucepan from heat. Allow it to sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. Then, uncover and fluff the rice gently with a fork. Serve Arroz Verde warm as a delicious side dish or as a flavorful base for grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
Notes
- For a spicier version, leave some seeds in the poblano chiles or add a jalapeño to the puree.
- This recipe can easily be doubled for larger gatherings or meal prep for the week.
- Feel free to experiment with other herbs like mint or basil for a unique twist on the traditional flavors.
- Arroz Verde pairs well with proteins such as grilled shrimp, chicken, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
