20 Traditional Puerto Rican Arroz Con Dulce Recipe They're Simply Irresistible!
Published on: Mar 31, 2024
Traditional Puerto Rican Arroz con Dulce is a beloved dessert that has been passed down from generation to generation. This sweet and creamy rice pudding is a staple in Puerto Rican cuisine and is often served during holidays and special occasions. The dish is not only delicious but also represents the rich history and cultural influences of Puerto Rico.
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Broiler Fryer Chicken, Flour, Salt, Ground
Arroz con pollo, or chicken with rice, is a classic Puerto Rican dish that is loved for its flavorful and comforting taste. This dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, and it's surprisingly easy to make. Here are 20 delicious variations of arroz con pollo that will elevate your cooking game and impress everyone at the table.
2of 20
Arroz Con Pollo
Main Ingredients: Chicken Thighs, Freshly Ground Pepper, Salt, Olive Oil
Arroz con dulce, also known as creamy coconut rice pudding, is a traditional Puerto Rican dessert that is typically enjoyed during the holiday season. This sweet and creamy dish is made with coconut milk, rice, and spices like cinnamon and cloves. It's a comforting and indulgent treat that will surely satisfy your sweet tooth.
3of 20
Arroz con Dulce
Main Ingredients: Medium Grain Rice, Cinnamon Sticks, Cloves, Fresh
A staple in Puerto Rican cuisine, arroz con gandules is a flavorful and hearty rice dish that is filled with pigeon peas, pork, and a variety of seasonings. This dish is often served during holidays and special occasions, but it's also a great dish to make on a regular day for a taste of Puerto Rican comfort food.
4of 20
Arroz Con Dulce
Main Ingredients: Short Grain Rice, Coconut Milk, Evaporated Milk
Mama's arroz con pollo recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for an authentic and delicious version of this classic dish. This recipe is passed down from generations and is sure to become a family favorite. The key to this dish is the sofrito, a flavorful seasoning made with peppers, onions, and herbs.
5of 20
Arroz con Dulce (Creamy Coconut Rice Pudding)
Main Ingredients: Medium Grain Rice, Cold Water, Coconut Milk, Cinnamon
This version of arroz con gandules is a healthier twist on the traditional dish. It uses brown rice instead of white, and adds in plenty of vegetables like bell peppers and carrots for added nutrition. The pigeon peas are still present, giving this dish its signature flavor and texture.
6of 20
Traditional Puerto Rican Rice Arroz con Gandules
Main Ingredients: Bacon, Cubanelle Pepper, Vegetable Oil, Fresh Cilantro
This recipe for arroz con pollo is a one-pot wonder, making it perfect for busy weeknights. It's made with boneless chicken thighs, rice, and a variety of herbs and spices for a flavorful and satisfying meal. This dish is also great for meal prepping, as it reheats well and can be enjoyed for lunch the next day.
7of 20
Mama's Puerto Rican Chicken and Rice (Arroz con Pollo)
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs, Cumin
Arroz con salchichas, or rice with sausage, is a popular variation of the classic dish. This recipe uses Vienna sausages, but you can also use any type of sausage you prefer. The combination of the sausage with the rice and seasonings creates a delicious and comforting meal that is loved by all.
8of 20
Arroz con Gandules – Puerto Rican Rice With Pigeon Peas
Main Ingredients: Medium Grain Rice, Water, Gandules, Pork, Vegetable
This version of arroz con pollo is a great option for those who don't eat meat. It's made with quorn chicken pieces, but you can also use tofu or any other plant-based protein. The flavors of the sofrito and other seasonings still shine through, making this dish just as tasty as the traditional version.
9of 20
Puerto Rican Rice with Chicken – Arroz con Pollo
Main Ingredients: Salt, Black Peppercorns, Garlic, Dried Oregano, Olive
This recipe for arroz con gandules is a crowd-pleaser and is perfect for feeding a large group. It's made with plenty of pigeon peas, pork, and flavorful seasonings. The addition of olives and capers give this dish a unique and delicious twist that will have everyone going back for seconds.
10of 20
Puerto Rican Arroz Con Salchichas
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Sofrito, Hot Dogs, Salt
This arroz con pollo recipe is made with a variety of herbs and spices, giving it a bold and delicious flavor. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of garlic, adobo, and other seasonings before being cooked with the rice. This extra step ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.
11of 20
Arroz con Gandules – Puerto Rican Rice With Pigeon Peas
Main Ingredients: Rice, Water, Cooking Oil, Sazon, Tomato Paste, Sofrito
Vegans can also enjoy a delicious version of arroz con gandules with this recipe. It uses plant-based chicken pieces and vegetable broth instead of chicken, but still packs a punch with its flavor. This dish is also gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
12of 20
Puerto Rican Arroz con Pollo
Main Ingredients: Chicken Breast, Paprika, Garlic Powder, Oregano, Sazon
This easy and delicious recipe for arroz con pollo is a great option for a weeknight dinner. It's made with a few simple ingredients, but still delivers on flavor. The key to this dish is cooking the rice in a mixture of chicken broth and tomato sauce, giving it a rich and savory taste.
13of 20
Puerto Rican Rice With Pigeon Peas (Arroz con Gandules)
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Sofrito, Chopped Ham, Rice, Water, Sazon
This recipe for arroz con gandules is a classic version of the dish. It's made with plenty of pigeon peas, pork, and a flavorful sofrito. The secret ingredient in this dish is a packet of sazon, a popular seasoning in Puerto Rican cuisine that adds a unique and delicious taste.
14of 20
Arroz Con Pollo (Puerto Rican Chicken & Rice)
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs, Adobo
While both Jamaican pigeon peas and Puerto Rican arroz con gandules use similar ingredients, they have distinct differences in flavor and preparation. Jamaican pigeon peas, or gungo peas, are typically cooked with coconut milk, while Puerto Rican arroz con gandules uses a variety of herbs and spices for its distinct taste. Both dishes are delicious in their own way and are worth trying.
15of 20
Vegan Puerto Rican Rice (Arroz con Gandules)
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Sofrito, Pigeon Peas, Pitted Green
This recipe for arroz con gandules is a healthier option that still packs a lot of flavor. Instead of white rice, this dish uses quinoa, a protein-packed grain that is also gluten-free. The pigeon peas and seasonings give this dish its signature taste, making it a great alternative for those looking to watch their carb intake.
16of 20
Arroz Con Pollo (Puerto Rican Chicken and Rice)
Main Ingredients: Adobo Seasoning, Boneless Chicken Thighs, Cooking Oil
Arroz con leche, or rice pudding, is a popular dessert in many Latin American countries, including Puerto Rico. This version of the dish is made with cinnamon, cloves, and raisins for added sweetness and flavor. It's a comforting and indulgent treat that is perfect for any occasion.
17of 20
Arroz con Gandules – Puerto Rican Rice With Pigeon Peas
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Country Ham, Sofrito, Water, Sazon, Chicken
This recipe for arroz con gandules is a classic version of the dish. It's made with plenty of pigeon peas, pork, and a flavorful sofrito. The key to this dish is cooking the rice in a mixture of chicken broth and tomato sauce, giving it a rich and savory taste that is sure to impress.
18of 20
Jamaican Pigeon Peas Vs Puerto Rican Arroz Con...
Main Ingredients: Rice, Coconut Milk, Water, Pigeon Peas, Dried Peas
This arroz con pollo recipe is a great option for those who love a little heat in their food. It's made with chicken pieces marinated in a spicy adobo sauce, giving the dish a delicious kick. The rice is also cooked in a mixture of chicken broth and tomato sauce, adding even more flavor to this already delicious dish.
19of 20
Arroz con Gandules – Puerto Rican Rice With Pigeon Peas
Main Ingredients: Adobo, Sazon, Onion Powder, Granulated Garlic, Dried
This version of arroz con gandules is a great option for those looking for a healthier version of the dish. It uses brown rice and chicken breast instead of white rice and pork, making it a lighter and more nutritious option. The pigeon peas and seasonings still give this dish its signature taste, making it a delicious and guilt-free meal.
20of 20
Arroz Con Leche
Main Ingredients: Cinnamon Sticks, Water, White Rice, Milk, Vanilla
This recipe for arroz con pollo is a great option for those who are short on time but still want a delicious and satisfying meal. It uses a few shortcuts, like using pre-cooked chicken and frozen vegetables, but still delivers on flavor. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.
The History and Cultural Significance of Arroz con Dulce
The origins of Arroz con Dulce can be traced back to the Spanish colonization of Puerto Rico. The dish was brought over by the Spaniards and adapted to include local ingredients and flavors. Over time, it became a beloved dessert among the Puerto Rican people and has become an important part of their culinary heritage.
Arroz con Dulce is also deeply rooted in Puerto Rican culture and is often served during holidays and celebrations such as Christmas, New Year's, and Three Kings Day. It is a symbol of family, tradition, and togetherness, as it is often prepared and enjoyed by multiple generations of family members.
The Ingredients and Preparation Process
The main ingredients of Arroz con Dulce include rice, coconut milk, spices, and sweetened condensed milk. These ingredients are simmered together, creating a creamy and flavorful rice pudding. However, each family and region in Puerto Rico may have their own unique twist on the recipe, adding their own special touch to the dish.
One key ingredient that sets Puerto Rican Arroz con Dulce apart from other rice pudding recipes is the use of coconut milk. This ingredient adds a distinct tropical flavor and makes the dish rich and creamy. The use of spices such as cinnamon, cloves, and ginger also adds depth and complexity to the dish.
The Importance of Keeping Traditional Recipes Alive
As with many traditional dishes, the recipe for Arroz con Dulce has been passed down through generations and is often kept alive through oral tradition. However, in today's fast-paced world, many people opt for quick and convenient recipes, neglecting the time and effort it takes to prepare a traditional dish.
It is important to preserve and celebrate traditional recipes like Arroz con Dulce, as they not only provide a delicious taste of Puerto Rican culture but also connect us to our roots and heritage. By keeping these recipes alive, we honor our ancestors and continue to pass down our cultural identity to future generations.
In conclusion, Arroz con Dulce is more than just a dessert. It is a representation of Puerto Rican culture, tradition, and family. The next time you savor a spoonful of this creamy and sweet rice pudding, remember the rich history and cultural significance behind it.
