Poblano Rice

Poblano Rice Recipe - Authentic Mexican Cuisine

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Poblano rice is a flavorful and colorful dish that combines the smoky heat of roasted poblano peppers with a variety of vegetables and rice. This dish is perfect for a side dish or a main course and is sure to impress your family and friends with its unique flavors.

History

Poblano rice is a traditional Mexican dish that has been enjoyed for generations. Poblano peppers are a staple in Mexican cuisine and are known for their mild heat and rich flavor. This dish is a great way to showcase the versatility of poblano peppers and is a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal.

Ingredients

3 medium-sized poblano peppers, roasted, peeled, and seeded
0.25 cup chopped onion
2 cups spinach leaves
0.25 cup cilantro
2 large cloves of garlic
2.5 cups chicken broth, divided
1 can (8.75 oz / 248 g) yellow corn, drained
0.5 cup chopped yellow squash
0.5 cup chopped red pepper
0.5 cup chopped carrots
1 cup uncooked rice
2 tbsp vegetable oil
0.25 tsp salt
ground black pepper to taste

How to prepare

In a blender, purée roasted peppers, onion, spinach, cilantro, garlic, and 0.5 cup of broth. Set aside.
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine rice and oil. Cook the rice until lightly browned.
Add the poblano purée to the rice and cook for about 5 minutes.
Add corn, squash, red pepper, carrots, remaining 2 cups of broth, salt, and black pepper to the saucepan. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
Remove from heat and let it stand for 10 to 15 minutes.

Variations

For a vegetarian version of this dish, you can omit the chicken broth and use vegetable broth instead.
Add in some cooked shrimp or chicken for a protein boost.
Top the poblano rice with some crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese for added flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to roast the poblano peppers until the skin is charred and blistered. This will help to bring out the smoky flavor of the peppers.

- Be sure to peel and seed the peppers before using them in the recipe to avoid any bitterness.

- Feel free to customize the vegetables in this dish to suit your preferences. You can add in any vegetables you like, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or tomatoes.

- For a spicier version of this dish, you can add in some diced jalapeños or serrano peppers.

Serving Suggestions

Serve poblano rice as a side dish with grilled chicken or steak.

- This dish also pairs well with black beans or refried beans for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Roasting the poblano peppers adds a smoky flavor to the dish.

- Simmering the rice and vegetables together allows the flavors to meld and develop.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find poblano peppers, you can use Anaheim peppers or bell peppers instead.

- Feel free to swap out the vegetables in this dish for any of your favorites.

Make Ahead Tips

Poblano rice can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the poblano rice with some fresh cilantro leaves or a squeeze of lime juice for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve poblano rice with a side of guacamole and tortilla chips for a complete Mexican-inspired meal.

- Pair this dish with a crisp white wine or a cold beer to complement the flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of poblano rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the rice in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

- 210 calories per serving

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 38g

- Dietary Fiber: 3g

- Sugars: 3g

Fats

- Total Fat: 5g

- Saturated Fat: 1g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 4g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 20% DV

- Vitamin C: 60% DV

- Calcium: 4% DV

- Iron: 6% DV

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten.

Summary

This poblano rice dish is a nutritious and delicious option for a side dish or main course. It is packed with vitamins and minerals and is relatively low in calories and fat.

Summary

Poblano rice is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its smoky heat and colorful vegetables, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy this flavorful dish with your family and friends for a meal that is both satisfying and delicious.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Poblano Rice. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her bustling kitchen. The air was filled with the delicious aroma of spices and herbs as she effortlessly moved around the room, preparing a feast for her family.

As I watched Maria chop fresh vegetables and roast fragrant peppers, I couldn't help but be mesmerized by her expertise in the kitchen. She noticed my curiosity and smiled, inviting me to pull up a chair and join her. "I'm making Poblano Rice today," she explained, "a family favorite that has been passed down for generations."

Maria began to walk me through the recipe, explaining each step in meticulous detail. She showed me how to char the poblano peppers over an open flame, then peel off the skins to reveal the smoky, flavorful flesh underneath. She taught me how to sauté the peppers with onions and garlic until they were soft and fragrant, then add in the rice and broth to simmer to perfection.

As I watched Maria work her magic in the kitchen, I couldn't help but be inspired by her passion for cooking. She shared stories of her own grandmother, who had taught her the recipe many years ago, and how each generation had added their own unique twist to make it their own.

After hours of cooking and stirring, Maria finally plated up the Poblano Rice, garnishing it with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime. The dish looked and smelled absolutely divine, and I couldn't wait to dig in and taste the fruits of our labor.

With the first bite, I was transported to a world of bold flavors and comforting spices. The smokiness of the poblano peppers paired perfectly with the earthy rice and the tangy lime, creating a dish that was both hearty and satisfying.

From that moment on, Poblano Rice became a staple in my own kitchen. I practiced the recipe tirelessly, perfecting each step until I could make it with my eyes closed. I added my own little touches along the way, experimenting with different herbs and spices to make it truly my own.

Years passed, and I continued to make Poblano Rice for my family and friends, each time sharing the story of how I learned the recipe from Maria on that fateful summer day. It became a tradition in our household, a dish that brought us together and filled our hearts with warmth and joy.

As I look back on that day in Maria's kitchen, I am filled with gratitude for the gift she gave me - not just the recipe for Poblano Rice, but a love for cooking that has shaped me into the person I am today. I will always cherish the memories of that day, and the delicious dish that brought us together in friendship and love.