Arroz de Marisco

arroz_de_marisco

Portuguese Arroz de Marisco, also known as seafood rice, is a traditional dish originating from the coastal regions of Portugal. The dish is a representation of the country’s connection to the sea, with the fresh seafood caught daily by local fishermen being a key ingredient.

Arroz de Marisco is a hearty and flavorful dish, consisting of rice cooked in a rich and flavorful broth with an array of fresh seafood. The seafood used can vary, but usually includes shrimp, mussels, clams, and diced squid.

While Arroz de Marisco is a classic Portuguese dish, it has also become popular in other countries with coastlines, especially those with a strong seafood culture. The dish is similar to risotto or paella, but with a Portuguese twist.

The broth used to cook the rice is a combination of tomato, onion, garlic, and parsley, giving it a delightful aroma and savory flavor. The seafood is then added to the broth, along with white wine and spices, and allowed to cook until infused with the flavors of the broth.

The rice is then added to the pot and cooked until it is fully absorbed by the broth. The result is a dish that brings together the best of both worlds - the sweet, meaty flavor of seafood and the tender, fluffy texture of rice.

One of the reasons why Arroz de Marisco is so loved by Portuguese people is because of its versatility. It can be served as a main dish or as a side dish, and it is often served with a simple green salad and a glass of crisp white wine.

While the dish is loved across Portugal, it is especially favored in the coastal towns and cities. It is often served in traditional Portuguese taverns and seafood restaurants, and families often prepare it at home for special occasions.

In fact, for many Portuguese families, preparing Arroz de Marisco is a tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation. Each family has its own unique recipe, often using secret ingredients that have been handed down over time.

Whether served in a restaurant or prepared at home, Arroz de Marisco is a delicious and comforting meal that brings the taste of the sea to the table. Its rich flavors and mouth-watering aroma make it a dish that people can’t resist, making it an essential part of Portuguese cuisine.

Ingredients:

  • 500g mixed seafood (prawns, clams, mussels, squid, etc)
  • 2 cups short-grain rice
  • 4 cups fish or seafood stock
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 1 ripe tomato, chopped
  • 1 red pepper, chopped
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • A handful of fresh coriander, chopped
  • Lemon wedges, to serve

Instructions:

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes.

  2. Add the chopped tomato and red pepper, and continue to cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  3. Add the rice to the pan, stirring to coat it with the vegetable mixture. Add the bay leaf, salt and pepper, and pour in the fish or seafood stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid.

  4. Meanwhile, rinse the mixed seafood thoroughly and drain well.

  5. After about 10 minutes, add the mixed seafood to the pan, pushing it down into the rice. Cover the pan again and continue to cook for another 10-15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the seafood is tender and cooked through.

  6. Remove the pan from the heat and let it sit for a few minutes before removing the lid. Discard the bay leaf and stir in the chopped coriander.

  7. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy your delicious Portuguese Arroz de Marisco!