Arroz de Feijão

arroz_de_feijão

Arroz de Feijão, a traditional and hearty dish from Portugal, translates to “rice with beans” in English. This dish is a staple in Portuguese cuisine and is often made in households across the country. Arroz de Feijão is a simple yet flavorful dish that features rice and beans cooked together with aromatic herbs and spices. This classic recipe is easy to make, and its taste can transport you to the sunny and colorful streets of Portugal.

Arroz de Feijão is one of the most popular dishes in Portugal, and it is a common household meal during the colder months of the year. The Portuguese people love their rice, and they believe in cooking it perfectly every time. Arroz de Feijão is a perfect example of this, as the rice is cooked until it is perfectly fluffy and infused with flavorful ingredients.

The main ingredients of this dish are white rice, red kidney beans, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and various herbs and spices like bay leaves, paprika, and cumin. Adding chorizo slices or diced bacon also gives it an added taste of saltiness and smokiness. The dish is often finished off with some finely chopped parsley and a drizzle of olive oil, which bring the whole dish together.

This dish is not only delicious, but it is also healthy and packed with nutrients. The kidney beans are a great source of protein, fiber, and minerals such as iron, magnesium, and potassium. Plus, rice is a great source of complex carbohydrates, which provide energy throughout the day.

The recipe is quite simple to follow and can be adapted to suit your taste preferences. First, start by rinsing the rice a few times and soaking it in water for about 30 minutes. This step ensures that the rice cooks evenly and becomes tender.

Next, heat some olive oil in a pot and fry some diced onions until they are softened. Then, add some chopped garlic and fry until fragrant before adding diced tomatoes. Cook everything together for another five to ten minutes before adding in the red kidney beans, bay leaves, paprika, and/or any other spices you prefer.

After the spices have cooked together for a little bit, add the drained rice and stir everything together. Pour in enough water or chicken stock to cover the mixture and bring everything to a boil. Then, reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked through and tender.

Once the rice is cooked, remove the bay leaves and stir in some chopped parsley. Drizzle a little bit of olive oil on top and serve while still warm. Arroz de Feijão can be served as a main dish or a side dish, and it pairs well with grilled meats, salads, or even a simple fried egg.

In conclusion, Arroz de Feijão is a delicious and healthy dish that is enjoyed by many in Portugal. It is easy to make, and its simplicity allows for customization to suit different tastes. The combination of fluffy rice, tender red kidney beans, and flavorful spices create a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. Give this recipe a try, and you will see why it is considered to be one of Portugal’s most prized dishes. Bom apetite!

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound of dry red kidney beans
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1/4 cup of olive oil
  • 1 cup of long-grain white rice
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Water

Instructions:

  1. Soak the beans overnight in plenty of water.

  2. Drain the beans and rinse them under cold water.

  3. Place the soaked and drained beans in a large pot and cover them with water.

  4. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, bay leaf, and olive oil to the pot.

  5. Bring the water to a boil and then reduce the heat to low.

  6. Cover the pot and let the beans simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours or until they are tender.

  7. Once the beans are tender, remove the bay leaf and season the beans with salt and pepper to taste.

  8. Add the white rice to the pot, stirring to combine with the beans.

  9. Add enough water into the pot until the liquid is about 1 inch above the top of the rice.

  10. Increase the heat to medium-high and stir the mixture well.

  11. Bring the pot to a simmer, then cover the pot and reduce the heat to low.

  12. Let the dish cook for around 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water has been absorbed.

  13. Serve the hot Arroz de Feijão, optionally accompanied by slices of sausage, fresh parsley, or hot sauce on top. Enjoy!