Arroz Con Gandoles
Arroz con gandules is a flavorful Puerto Rican rice dish featuring tender pigeon peas, savory pork, and a rich tomato-based sauce, perfect for family gatherings and festive occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large pot, add the oil and heat over medium heat.
- Once hot, add 1 tablespoon of sofrito and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in 4 tablespoons of tomato sauce, sazon, sazon con achiote, garlic, pepper, and salt.
- Simmer the mixture until it turns brown.
- Add 6 cups of water to the pot and bring to a boil.
- Add the pork chops, ham, and canned gandules (pigeon peas) to the boiling mixture.
- Stir in the rice, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed, about 20-25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade sofrito. You can substitute the pork with chicken or turkey for a lighter version. If you want a vegetarian option, omit the meat entirely and add more vegetables. Adjust the spice level by including diced jalapeños or other peppers. Cooking 'Red Beans Supreme And Rice' With The Rice Family can also inspire creative variations on this dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or avocado for added freshness. This dish pairs beautifully with 'Herbed Ham Slices' or a simple side salad for a balanced meal. For an authentic experience, serve with fried plantains or a side of your favorite beans.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to maintain moisture and microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. For best results, you may also reheat in a pot on the stove over low heat until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Arroz Con Gandoles contains roughly 1433 calories, with 83g protein, 129g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (165% of the Daily Value), iron (44% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2320mg per serving (101% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen gandules instead of canned?
Yes, you can use frozen gandules; just make sure to thaw them before adding to the pot. This may slightly alter the cooking time, so keep an eye on the consistency of the dish as it cooks.
What can I do if my rice is overcooked?
If your rice turns out overcooked and mushy, try mixing in a small amount of cooked rice to improve texture. You can also fluff the dish with a fork to help separate the grains.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! To add heat, incorporate diced fresh chili peppers or a dash of cayenne pepper along with the garlic. You can also serve the dish with hot sauce on the side for those who prefer extra spice.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).