Arroz con gandules (Rice with pigeon peas)🇵🇷

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Certainly! Puerto Rican cuisine is rich in flavors and influenced by Spanish, African, and indigenous Taíno cultures. Here's a detailed recipe for Arroz con Gandules, a traditional Puerto Rican dish often served during special occasions:

**Arroz con Gandules (Rice with Pigeon Peas)**

**Ingredients:**

- 2 cups long-grain rice
- 1 can (15 oz) pigeon peas (gandules), drained and rinsed
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 ripe tomatoes, seeded and chopped
- 1 packet (1.41 oz) sazón seasoning with annatto (achiote)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or culantro (optional, for garnish)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Sofrito:**
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they start to break down.

2. **Cook the Rice:**
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
- Add the rice to the skillet with the sofrito mixture. Stir well to coat the rice with the vegetables and oil.
- Pour in the water or chicken broth, drained pigeon peas, sazón seasoning, dried oregano, ground cumin, black pepper, ground coriander, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.
- Check the rice occasionally and stir gently to prevent sticking. If the rice appears dry before it's fully cooked, add a splash of water or broth.

3. **Serve:**
- Once the rice is cooked, remove the bay leaf and discard.
- Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.
- Taste the rice and adjust the seasoning with salt if necessary.
- Garnish the arroz con gandules with chopped fresh cilantro or culantro before serving, if desired.
- Serve hot as a side dish or as a main course with your favorite protein, such as roast pork (pernil), chicken, or beef.

Arroz con Gandules is a delicious and comforting dish that's perfect for celebrating Puerto Rican culture and enjoying with family and friends. Enjoy the rich flavors and vibrant colors of this traditional Puerto Rican favorite!

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