Spanish Rice from Guatemala

Spanish Rice from Guatemala Recipe - Vegetarian Rice Dish with Tomatoes, Onion, and More

Region / culture: Guatemala, Spain | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Spanish Rice is a popular dish in Guatemala, known for its flavorful combination of rice and vegetables. This dish is a staple in Guatemalan cuisine and is often served as a side dish or as a main course.

History

Spanish Rice has its roots in Spanish cuisine, but it has been adapted and modified over the years to suit the tastes of Guatemalan people. The dish is typically made with rice, tomatoes, onions, carrots, peas, and potatoes, creating a colorful and nutritious meal.

Ingredients

0.5 lb (227 g) of rice
2 medium ripe tomatoes
0.5 medium onion
0.5 carrot
1 medium potato
0.25 cup of fresh peas
0.5 bell pepper, green or red

How to prepare

Cut all the vegetables, except the peas and potato, into small slices.
Cut the potato into 8 cubes.
Wash the rice and then combine all the ingredients in a skillet. Cook on a medium flame without water for 5 minutes, then cover and cook on low flame until done.

Variations

Add cooked beans or tofu for extra protein.
Use different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for variety.
Add spices like cumin or paprika for a more flavorful dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to wash the rice before cooking to remove excess starch.

- Cut the vegetables into small, uniform pieces for even cooking.

- Cook the rice on a low flame to prevent burning and ensure that it cooks evenly.

Serving Suggestions

Spanish Rice can be served as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or as a main course with a side of salad. It pairs well with avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the vegetables before adding the rice for added flavor.

- Cook the rice on a low flame to ensure that it cooks evenly and does not burn.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use brown rice instead of white rice for a healthier option.

- Substitute frozen peas for fresh peas if they are not available.

- Use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Spanish Rice can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Spanish Rice in a colorful bowl or on a decorative plate for an attractive presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Spanish Rice pairs well with dishes like grilled chicken, fish tacos, or black bean soup. It also goes well with a side of guacamole or salsa.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Spanish Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Spanish Rice typically contains around 200-250 calories, depending on the portion size and ingredients used.

Carbohydrates

Spanish Rice is a carbohydrate-rich dish, with the main source of carbs coming from the rice and vegetables. Carbohydrates provide energy for the body and are essential for overall health.

Fats

Spanish Rice is a low-fat dish, as it is primarily made with vegetables and rice. The fats in this dish come from cooking oil used to sauté the vegetables.

Proteins

Spanish Rice is a low-protein dish, as the main ingredients are rice and vegetables. To increase the protein content, you can add beans or tofu to the dish.

Vitamins and minerals

Spanish Rice is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C from the tomatoes and vitamin A from the carrots. The dish also contains minerals like potassium and iron from the vegetables.

Alergens

Spanish Rice is a gluten-free and dairy-free dish, making it suitable for those with gluten or lactose intolerances. However, it may contain allergens like soy or nuts, depending on the ingredients used.

Summary

Overall, Spanish Rice is a nutritious and balanced dish that provides a good source of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. It is a healthy option for a meal or side dish.

Summary

Spanish Rice is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and versatile. With a combination of rice and vegetables, this dish is a healthy option for a meal or side dish. Enjoy this flavorful dish as part of your next meal!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Spanish Rice from Guatemala. It was many years ago, during my travels through Central America. I had always been fascinated by the different cuisines and flavors of the world, and Guatemala was no exception.

I had been wandering through the bustling markets of Antigua, taking in the sights and sounds of the vibrant city. As I browsed through the stalls filled with colorful fruits and vegetables, my eyes landed on a small, weathered notebook tucked away in a corner of one of the vendors' tables. Curious, I picked it up and flipped through the pages, my heart racing with excitement.

The notebook was filled with handwritten recipes, each one more enticing than the last. But one in particular caught my eye - a recipe for Spanish Rice from Guatemala. The ingredients were simple yet flavorful, a perfect blend of rice, tomatoes, bell peppers, and spices. I knew I had to learn how to make it.

I approached the vendor and inquired about the recipe. To my surprise, she was more than happy to share it with me. She told me that the recipe had been passed down through generations in her family, and she was proud to keep the tradition alive.

As I hurried back to my hostel, clutching the precious recipe in my hands, I couldn't wait to recreate the flavors of Guatemala in my own kitchen. The next day, I gathered the ingredients and got to work.

I started by sautéing onions and garlic in a large skillet, the heavenly aroma filling the air. Then, I added the diced tomatoes and bell peppers, letting them simmer and release their juices. The colors of the vegetables were vibrant and inviting, a feast for the eyes.

Next, I added the rice and chicken broth, stirring gently to combine all the ingredients. I sprinkled in a secret blend of spices - cumin, paprika, and a touch of chili powder - to give the dish a kick of flavor. As the rice cooked and absorbed the flavors of the broth, I knew I was onto something special.

After letting the rice simmer for a while, I lifted the lid of the skillet and was met with a sight that made my mouth water. The rice was perfectly cooked, fluffy and fragrant, with each grain infused with the rich flavors of the tomatoes and peppers.

I scooped a generous portion of the Spanish Rice onto a plate and took my first bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth, a symphony of tastes and textures that danced on my taste buds. The sweetness of the tomatoes paired perfectly with the smokiness of the cumin, creating a dish that was both comforting and exotic.

As I savored each bite, I couldn't help but think of the vendor who had shared her family recipe with me. In that moment, I felt a connection to Guatemala and its people, a bond forged through the love of food and tradition.

Since that day, Spanish Rice from Guatemala has become a staple in my kitchen. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the flavors and stories of my travels to anyone who will listen. And every time I make it, I am transported back to that bustling market in Antigua, where my culinary journey began.

As I sit here now, writing down the story of how I learned to make Spanish Rice from Guatemala, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences and memories that have shaped me into the cook and storyteller that I am today. And as I continue to explore the world through its flavors and cuisines, I know that there will always be new recipes and stories waiting to be discovered.