Arroz Verde (Green Rice)
Arroz Verde, fresh + flavorful rice alluring us all with its hue.
INGREDIENTS
2 cups cooked spinach (kale is great too)
Half bunch cilantro
1 jalapeno pepper, deveined and deseeded
3 garlic cloves. minced
1 small yellow onion
1/4 cup oil
2 cups long grain basmati white rice
3 cups chicken stock
1 teaspoon salt
fresh lime juice
METHOD
Soak your rice, if necessary.
Toss the cooked spinach, cilantro leaves, jalapeno, garlic, onion, salt, and lime juice into a food processor. Give it a whirl until it transforms into a green paste, like a chutney.
Grab a heavy-bottomed pot and add your oil. Once the oil is hot, add your rice. Give it a stir and let it cook for around 5-7 minutes. You want it to look whitish rice, but not brown.
Add chicken stock + your green mixture to the pot. Stir to ensure everything is well combined. Lower the heat to a simmer and let the rice cook for 16-18 mins.
Check to see if the rice is cooked to your desired tenderness. Once it's just right, turn off the heat and cover the pot, allowing it to sit undisturbed for another five minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together.
I love pairing this green rice with chicken thighs, salads and salsas! It’s so good.
Enjoy besties! <3
SERVING SUGGESTION
Some ideas to elevate your Spinach-Packed Arroz Verde experience:
Grilled Chicken: Serve a juicy grilled chipotle chicken breast or thigh alongside your Arroz Verde.
Citrusy Shrimp Skewers: Thread some succulent shrimp onto skewers and grill or sauté them until they're perfectly cooked. Place these flavor-packed delights on a bed of Arroz Verde.
Roasted Vegetables Medley: Roast a colorful assortment of vegetables to pair with the rice; like bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes creating a wholesome vegetarian meal.
Spicy Black Beans: Make a batch of spicy black beans to accompany your Arroz Verde.
Tangy Avocado Salad: Prepare a refreshing avocado salad by tossing diced avocados, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and a squeeze of lime juice together. Serve this salad on the side to add a cool and creamy element to your meal.
