Irresistible Arroz con Gandules: A Puerto Rican Delight

Name: Arroz con Gandules
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Ingredients: 2 cups long-grain rice; 1 can (15 oz) pigeon peas, drained; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 1 tsp adobo seasoning; 1/2 cup sofrito; 3 cups chicken broth; 1 packet sazon seasoning; Juice of 1 lime

Recipe By:

Ruth

Posted:

November 11, 2025

Updated:

November 11, 2025

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When you take a whiff of Arroz con Gandules, the aroma wraps around you like a warm hug on a chilly day. This Puerto Rican classic brings together tender rice, plump pigeon peas, and a symphony of spices that dance together in your mouth. Each forkful is a delightful explosion of flavors that will make your taste buds sing and your heart do a little happy dance.

I remember the first time I tried making Arroz con Gandules. It was during a family gathering, and all eyes were on me as I attempted to recreate my abuela’s famous dish. The pressure was on! But as the aroma filled the kitchen, I knew I was onto something special. This dish is perfect for celebrations, lazy Sundays, or any occasion where good food and great company come together. Get ready to tantalize your palate with an experience that’s bursting with flavor!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Arroz con Gandules is incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs
The rich, savory flavors are sure to impress anyone at your dinner table
Its vibrant colors make it visually stunning and perfect for festive occasions
Plus, it pairs wonderfully with meats or can shine as a standalone vegetarian meal

The last time I made this dish, my friends couldn’t stop raving about how it tasted just like home-cooked goodness—there were even tears of joy involved!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Long-Grain Rice: Use high-quality rice for the best texture; it should cook up fluffy and separate.
Pigeon Peas (Gandules): These little green gems add protein and a unique flavor; canned ones save time.
Olive Oil: A splash of good olive oil enhances richness; don’t skimp on quality here.
Onion: Sweet onions work best; they caramelize beautifully to add depth to the dish.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves deliver an irresistible aroma; minced or chopped works well.
Green Bell Pepper: Adds sweetness and texture; use fresh for maximum crunch.
Adobo Seasoning: A must-have spice blend for authentic flavor; feel free to adjust based on personal preference.
Sofrito: This aromatic blend is key for depth; homemade or store-bought both work wonders.
Chicken Broth: For cooking the rice; it adds extra flavor compared to water alone.
Sazon Seasoning: This magic seasoning adds color and flavor; seek out the one with achiote for that signature hue.
Lime Juice: A splash at the end brightens everything up; always use fresh lime if possible.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Arroz con Gandules

How to Make Arroz con Gandules

Sauté the Base Ingredients: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and let it warm up. Toss in chopped onions, garlic, and green bell pepper until they become tender and fragrant.

Add Sofrito & Spices: Stir in your sofrito along with adobo seasoning and sazon seasoning. Cook until everything is well combined and aromatic—about 3 minutes should do.

Add Rice & Liquid Components: Pour in long-grain rice, mixing well until it’s coated with oils and spices. Next, add pigeon peas and chicken broth; give it a good stir.

Bring to Boil & Simmer : Increase heat until boiling, then reduce to low heat. Cover with a lid and simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes until rice absorbs all the liquid.

Add Lime Juice & Fluff It Up!: Once cooked through, squeeze fresh lime juice over the top. Use a fork to fluff up the rice gently—this helps separate grains without mashing them.

With these simple steps, you’ll have created an unforgettable Arroz con Gandules that will have everyone coming back for seconds—or thirds! Enjoy sharing this delightful dish with loved ones while creating memories that will last forever!

You Must Know

Arroz con Gandules is not just a dish; it’s a Puerto Rican tradition
The aroma of seasoned rice and pigeon peas fills the kitchen, making it a comforting meal that brings family together
This vibrant dish can be a showstopper at any gathering!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing the sofrito before adding rice and broth; this builds flavor in every grain.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap pigeon peas for black beans or add diced ham for a smoky flavor twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on low to avoid drying out.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve perfect Arroz con Gandules, use high-quality olive oil for depth of flavor
Always rinse your rice to remove excess starch and prevent stickiness
Lastly, let the dish rest after cooking; this enhances flavors and improves texture!

Cooking Arroz con Gandules reminds me of my grandmother, who always insisted on using fresh ingredients. One time, I forgot the olives, and she noticed immediately!

FAQ

What is Arroz con Gandules?

Arroz con Gandules is a traditional Puerto Rican rice dish with pigeon peas and spices.

Can I make Arroz con Gandules vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just omit meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How do I reheat Arroz con Gandules?

Reheat slowly on low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent dryness.

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