Discover the vibrant and flavorful world of Red Rice with this easy recipe. Infused with achiote seeds, this staple dish brings a rich color and unique taste to your table. Perfect as a side or main dish, learn how to make this delicious rice that's both visually appealing and packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

- 2 cups long-grain rice

- 1 tablespoon achiote seeds

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- 1 bay leaf

- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare Achiote Infusion:

  - In a small saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add achiote seeds and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until they release their color and aroma. Remove from heat and strain the oil to remove seeds.

Cook Vegetables:

  - In a large pot or rice cooker, heat the achiote-infused oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.

  - Add minced garlic and bell pepper, cooking for an additional 3 minutes until softened.

Add Spices:

  - Stir in ground cumin, paprika, and bay leaf. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.

Cook Rice:

  - Add the rice to the pot, stirring to coat with the spices and vegetables.

  - Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Simmer:

  - Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. 

Fluff and Serve:

  - Remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.

Enjoy this vibrant and delicious Red Rice as a perfect accompaniment to your favorite dishes!

Nutritional Values

Long-Grain Rice (2 cups)

   - About 1,300 calories

   - 280 grams of carbohydrates

   - 12 grams of protein

Benefits:

   - Provides a good source of energy through carbohydrates.

   - Low in fat and can be a versatile base for many dishes.

Achiote Seeds (1 tablespoon)

   - About 20 calories

   - 2 grams of fat

   - 1 gram of carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Adds a unique flavor and vibrant color to dishes.

   - Contains antioxidants and can support digestive health.

Vegetable Oil (2 tablespoons)

   - About 240 calories

   - 28 grams of fat (4 grams of saturated fat)

Benefits:

   - Provides healthy fats that can support heart health.

   - Adds richness and helps to sauté vegetables and spices.

Onion (1, finely chopped)

   - About 45 calories

   - 11 grams of carbohydrates

   - 1 gram of protein

Benefits:

   - Contains antioxidants and vitamins such as vitamin C.

   - May have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

Garlic Cloves (3, minced)

   - About 12 calories

   - 3 grams of carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Contains antioxidants and may have cardiovascular benefits.

   - Supports immune health and adds flavor.

Bell Pepper (1, finely chopped)

   - About 25 calories

   - 6 grams of carbohydrates

   - 1 gram of protein

Benefits:

   - Rich in vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants.

   - Supports eye health and immune function.

Ground Cumin (1 teaspoon)

   - About 8 calories

   - 1 gram of carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Provides iron and antioxidants.

   - May aid digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Paprika (1 teaspoon)

   - About 6 calories

   - 1 gram of carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Rich in vitamins A and E.

   - Contains antioxidants and adds color and flavor to dishes.

Bay Leaf (1)

   - Negligible calories and nutrients (used for flavor)

Benefits:

   - Adds a distinctive aroma and flavor to the rice.

   - May have digestive benefits and contains antioxidants.

Chicken or Vegetable Broth (4 cups)

   - About 40-80 calories (varies by brand and type)

   - 2-5 grams of protein

   - 1-2 grams of fat

Benefits:

   - Adds flavor to the rice and provides some nutrients.

   - Can be a good source of minerals and proteins, depending on the type.

Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz, undrained)

   - About 70 calories

   - 15 grams of carbohydrates

   - 3 grams of protein

Benefits:

   - Rich in vitamins A and C and antioxidants like lycopene.

   - Supports heart health and may reduce the risk of certain cancers.

Salt and Pepper to Taste

   - Salt: About 1,150 mg sodium per ½ teaspoon

   - Pepper: About 6 calories per teaspoon

Benefits:

   - Salt enhances flavor but should be used in moderation to avoid excessive sodium intake.

   - Pepper adds flavor and contains antioxidants.

Fresh Cilantro (For Garnish)

   - About 1 calorie per tablespoon

Benefits:

   - Rich in vitamins A, C, and K.

   - Contains antioxidants and supports digestion.

This breakdown should provide a clear understanding of the nutritional profile and benefits of each ingredient in your rice recipe.