Discover the vibrant flavors of Spanish cuisine with our delightful "Arroz Amarillo with Peas" recipe! This eye-catching dish, with its golden hue and fragrant aroma, is not only a feast for the senses but also a breeze to prepare. Imagine serving a plate of perfectly cooked saffron-infused rice, dotted with sweet green peas, to your family and friends—it's sure to impress! Whether you're looking for a stunning side dish or a light main course, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into the delicious world of Arroz Amarillo!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Spanish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups rice
- 1/2 teaspoon saffron
- 1 cup peas
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl, crush the saffron threads between your fingers and steep them in 1/4 cup of warm chicken broth to release their vibrant yellow color and aromatic flavor.
- Heat a large, wide paella pan or heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and sauté the chopped onions until they become translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and to release the garlic's fragrant oils.
- Add the rice to the pan and stir to coat the grains with oil, toasting them lightly for 1-2 minutes until they become slightly translucent.
- Pour in the remaining chicken broth and the saffron-infused broth, stirring to distribute the saffron evenly and ensure the rice is well-coated.
- Season with salt to taste, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil before reducing the heat to low and covering the pan.
- Simmer the rice for approximately 18-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- During the last 5 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the peas over the top of the rice, allowing them to steam and cook gently.
- Remove the pan from heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the rice to fully absorb any remaining moisture.
- Fluff the rice with a fork, gently mixing in the peas, and serve hot as a vibrant side dish or light main course.
Tips
- Saffron Soaking: Don’t skip steeping the saffron in warm chicken broth! This step is crucial for unlocking its rich color and flavor, making your dish truly stand out.
- Perfect Rice: Use medium-grain rice for the best texture. It absorbs flavors well and becomes wonderfully tender without becoming mushy.
- Cooking Vessel: A wide paella pan or heavy-bottomed skillet is ideal for even cooking and allows the rice to develop a beautiful crust at the bottom, known as "socarrat."
- Monitor Liquid: Keep an eye on the liquid levels while cooking. If the rice isn’t fully cooked but the liquid is absorbed, you can add a splash more broth or water.
- Resting Time: Allow the rice to rest after cooking. This helps the flavors meld together and ensures a fluffy texture when you fluff it with a fork.
- Customization: Feel free to add other vegetables or proteins like bell peppers or shrimp for a heartier meal. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 5mg
