Rice is a staple ingredient in many cuisines around the world, and Peru is no exception. In fact, Peru’s culinary tradition offers a wide variety of flavorful rice dishes that are both delicious and easy to make. From classic Arroz con Pollo (Peruvian Chicken and Rice) to innovative recipes like Peruvian Green Rice with Cilantro, there’s something for everyone. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the flavors of Peru, exploring 20 mouthwatering rice recipes that will inspire your next culinary adventure.
Peruvian Arroz con Pollo
Experience the bold flavors of Peru with this classic chicken and rice dish, infused with a hint of spice and freshness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Add rice and water; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.
7. Add cooked chicken, mixed vegetables, and stir-fry until heated through.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes
Arroz Chaufa (Peruvian Fried Rice)
A classic Peruvian dish, Arroz Chaufa is a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s easy to make with leftover rice. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 cup diced chicken or beef (optional)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked meat (if using); stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the cooked rice, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the Arroz Chaufa to a serving platter; garnish with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Peruvian Green Rice with Cilantro
A flavorful and vibrant side dish inspired by Peruvian cuisine, this green rice is infused with the freshness of cilantro and the warmth of garlic. Perfect for accompanying grilled meats or as a base for a hearty bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the oil and mix with the garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until lightly toasted.
4. Add the water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the chopped cilantro. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Arroz Tapado (Layered Peruvian Rice and Meat)
Experience the rich flavors of Peru with this hearty layered rice dish, Arroz Tapado, featuring tender meat and savory spices.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 lb beef shank or beef short ribs, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for browning
• Chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Brown the beef pieces in a large skillet with some vegetable oil, then set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
4. Add cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
5. Layer ingredients in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot: browned beef, cooked rice mixture (rice, broth, and sautéed onion mixture), then repeat layers one more time, finishing with a layer of rice.
6. Cover the dish and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the rice is tender and the meat is falling apart.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Peruvian Rice with Shrimp and Beer
This hearty dish combines the bold flavors of Peruvian cuisine with the comfort of beer-infused rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup beer (any type, but a crisp lager works well)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Add cooked rice, beer, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until liquid has been absorbed and rice is tender.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Arroz con Mariscos (Peruvian Seafood Rice)
A flavorful and aromatic Peruvian dish that combines succulent seafood with saffron-infused rice, onions, garlic, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, clams), cleaned and chopped
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mixed seafood; cook until opaque and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add rice to the saucepan; stir to combine with seafood mixture.
5. Add water, saffron mixture, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is cooked.
7. Fluff rice with a fork; serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peruvian Rice with Chicken and Vegetables
This hearty dish combines the flavors of Peru with the comfort of a warm, fluffy rice bowl. Savor the savory aroma and taste of this simple yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 boneless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; sauté until vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add rice to skillet, stirring to combine with vegetables. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add paprika, salt, and pepper; stir well.
5. Add diced tomatoes and chicken back into the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Arroz con Pato (Peruvian Duck Rice)
A hearty Peruvian dish that combines tender duck with flavorful rice and spices, perfect for a special occasion or family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb duck breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add duck pieces and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to the same pan; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add rice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pan; stir to combine.
5. Add chicken broth, water, and tomato paste; bring to a boil.
6. Return duck to the pan, cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender and duck is cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peruvian Rice with Beef and Peppers
This hearty Peruvian-inspired dish is a staple of many Andean households, featuring juicy beef strips, colorful peppers, and creamy rice. With its bold flavors and satisfying texture, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 pound beef strips (such as flank steak or ribeye)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add sliced peppers to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
5. Stir in minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Combine cooked rice with beef strips, onion-pepper mixture, and any desired chopped cilantro. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Arroz con Leche (Peruvian Rice Pudding)
A creamy and comforting dessert, Arroz con Leche is a staple in Peruvian cuisine. This simple recipe yields a rich and flavorful rice pudding that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and 3 cups of milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened slightly (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Let cool to room temperature.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serves: 6-8 people
Enjoy your creamy Arroz con Leche!
Peruvian Rice with Black Beans
Discover the rich flavors of Peru with this simple yet flavorful rice dish infused with black beans, onions, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed (15 ounces)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt to taste
– Vegetable oil for sautéing
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Add the rice, black beans, cumin, salt, and water to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Arroz con Pollo a la Norteña (Northern-Style Peruvian Chicken Rice)
A classic Peruvian dish that combines the flavors of chicken, rice, and spices, Arroz con Pollo is a staple in Northern Peru. This recipe is a simplified version of the traditional dish, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pan and sauté until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the rice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pan and stir to combine.
5. Add the water to the pan and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
7. Return the chicken to the pan and stir to combine.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Peruvian Rice with Chorizo and Eggs
A flavorful and filling breakfast or brunch dish that combines the bold flavors of Peruvian cuisine with the richness of chorizo and eggs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup diced chorizo sausage, cooked through
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add the cooked chorizo and stir to combine with the onion.
3. Add the rice and stir to coat with the oil mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the water to the saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Push the cooked rice mixture to one side of the saucepan. Crack in the beaten eggs and scramble them until they are almost set.
6. Mix the eggs with the rice and chorizo. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Arroz con Camarones (Peruvian Shrimp Rice)
A flavorful and aromatic Peruvian dish that combines succulent shrimp with saffron-infused rice, onions, garlic, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with onion mixture. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is cooked.
4. In a separate pan, cook shrimp over medium-high heat until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Stir in saffron mixture, paprika, salt, and pepper into the cooked rice. Fluff with a fork to combine.
6. Serve hot with cooked shrimp on top and garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peruvian Rice with Mushrooms and Cheese
This flavorful rice dish is a staple in Peruvian cuisine, combining sautéed mushrooms, cheese, and spices to create a savory and aromatic side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse rice and soak in water for 30 minutes. Drain excess water.
2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add cooked rice to the saucepan, stirring to combine with the mushroom mixture.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked and fluffy.
6. Stir in paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Top with grated cheese and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Arroz con Carne (Peruvian Beef Rice)
A hearty and flavorful Peruvian dish that combines tender beef, savory rice, and spices for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 pounds beef brisket or shank, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups beef broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the rice to the pot, stirring to combine with the beef mixture.
5. Pour in the beef broth, bringing the mixture to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed, about 20-25 minutes.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peruvian Rice with Tuna and Olives
This flavorful Peruvian-inspired dish is a perfect blend of savory tuna, briny olives, and aromatic rice. It’s an easy and delicious meal that can be prepared in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (5 oz) of tuna in olive oil, drained and flaked
– 1/4 cup chopped green olives
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the tuna and stir to combine with the garlic and oil.
4. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the tuna mixture.
5. Add 2 cups of water to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
7. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the chopped olives. Season with salt to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Arroz con Chancho (Peruvian Pork Rice)
Experience the rich flavors of Peru with this hearty and comforting dish, featuring tender pork, savory rice, and a hint of spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add pork and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet.
2. Reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add rice and stir to combine with the onion mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Gradually add chicken broth, stirring continuously. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
6. Stir in cooked pork and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Peruvian Rice with Lentils and Sausage
This hearty dish combines the flavors of Peru with the comfort of a warm, savory rice bowl. The addition of lentils adds protein and texture to this satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 1 cup cooked lentils (such as green or black)
– 1 Peruvian sausage (like chorizo or longaniza), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pan; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the rice, lentils, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir to combine.
5. Add the water to the pan and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Arroz con Verduras (Peruvian Vegetable Rice)
This flavorful Peruvian dish is a staple in many homes, combining the simplicity of rice with an array of colorful vegetables. This recipe serves 4-6 people and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
– 1 small zucchini, sliced
– 1 small tomato, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, zucchini, and tomato. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
3. Add rice to the saucepan and stir to combine with vegetables.
4. Add water, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves (if desired) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your culinary game with these 20 flavorful Peru rice recipes! From classic Arroz con Pollo to innovative dishes like Peruvian Fried Rice and Green Rice with Cilantro, there’s something for everyone. Discover bold flavors and aromas inspired by Peruvian cuisine, featuring chicken, shrimp, beef, pork, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or looking for new ideas, these recipes will take your taste buds on an exciting journey through the culinary world of Peru.
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