Arroz Verde (Green Rice)
User Reviews
5
Arroz Verde (Green Rice)
Description
Arroz Verde (Green Rice) combines fresh cilantro and spinach pureed with chicken stock and milk to create a distinctive green cooking liquid that infuses the rice with flavor and color. The rice is first toasted in a mix of butter and olive oil, developing a slight nutty aroma and golden edges, then cooked with onion, jalapeño, and garlic to add depth and gentle spiciness. The dish is simmered covered until the rice is tender and fluffy, with a creamy consistency from the milk. Just before serving, lime juice is squeezed over the rice, adding a fresh citrus note that complements the herbal base.
This rice makes a flavorful side that pairs well with poultry, seafood, or Mexican dishes. It balances richness and brightness, with an appealing color that adds visual interest to the plate.
Consider checking the rice doneness slightly earlier if your stove cooks at a higher temperature, as cooking times can vary. Adapted from a Fine Cooking magazine recipe, this version offers a delicate and well-rounded taste through the combination of greens and aromatic ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup cilantro tightly packed, fresh
- 1 cup spinach tightly packed, fresh leaves
- 1-1/4 cups chicken stock
- 1-1/4 cups milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 3 Tbsp butter unsalted
- 1-1/2 cups long-grain rice
- 1/4 cup onion minced
- 1 jalapeño seeds removed, minced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 lime quartered
Instructions
- To a blender or food processor, add cilantro, spinach, chicken stock, milk and salt. Puree until smooth and well combined. Set aside.
- Add olive oil and butter to a large saucepan (with tight fitting lid), and heat over MED heat.
- Add rice and stir. Saute rice, stirring often, until it starts to toast and turn golden brown. This will take about 3 minutes or so.
- Add onion, jalapeno and garlic, and saute for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
- Pour in pureed mixture, stirring to combine well.
- Increase heat to HIGH to bring to a boil. Once it boils, reduce heat to LOW, cover with lid, and cook for 20 minutes.
- Stir rice once, cover pan again and cook another 5 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and let rice sit in the covered pot for 10 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork and serve.
- Squeeze a lime quarter over the rice right before eating for extra freshness!
Notes
- Monitor rice during cooking, since heat output varies by stove; adjust timing to ensure perfect tenderness.
- Adding a fresh squeeze of lime juice right before serving adds a bright finishing touch to the dish.
- Use fresh cilantro and spinach for the best green color and flavor in the puree.
- To toast the rice evenly, stir frequently until golden but not burnt.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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