Hey y’all! Are you ready to spice up your dinner table with a vibrant dish that’s sure to impress? Today, we’re diving into a classic that’s bursting with flavor—Cuban Yellow Rice! This dish is a staple in many households and can be paired with your favorite proteins or served on its own. Let’s get started with this delightful recipe!
Cuban Yellow Rice
This dish isn’t just easy to make but also brings a beautiful touch of color to your meal. The bright yellow from the saffron and turmeric will have everyone gathering around the table in no time!
Ingredients
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads (optional, for extra flavor and color)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and diced bell pepper, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the rice to the pot and stir to coat it with the oil and vegetables. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, letting the rice toast slightly.
- Now, pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Stir in the cumin, turmeric, saffron (if using), bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Once cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and discard the bay leaf. Serve warm and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.
This Cuban Yellow Rice makes a fantastic side dish for any meal, or even stands alone as a comforting bowl of goodness. Pair it with your favorite grilled meats or veggies, and watch everyone come back for seconds. Enjoy your cooking and the delightful feast that awaits!