Welcome to the vibrant world of Argentine cuisine, where each dish is a celebration of diverse flavors and culinary traditions. Among the gems of Argentine gastronomy, "Arroz con Pollo" stands out as a beloved and comforting classic. This hearty dish, which translates to "Rice with Chicken," seamlessly blends the warmth of rice with the savory goodness of tender chicken and an array of aromatic spices.

In this culinary journey, we will delve into the heart of Argentina's culinary landscape, exploring the origins and cultural significance of Arroz con Pollo. From family gatherings to festive occasions, this dish has become a staple on Argentine tables, symbolizing not only the artistry of blending ingredients but also the communal joy of sharing a delicious meal.

Join us as we unravel the secrets behind the perfect Arroz con Pollo, immersing ourselves in the tantalizing aromas and flavors that define this Argentine culinary masterpiece.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups long-grain white rice
• 1.5 pounds (about 700g) chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or a mix)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium tomato, diced
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 cup sliced green olives
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

Season the Chicken: In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, cumin, paprika, and dried oregano. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Sear the Chicken: In a large, heavy pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken pieces on all sides until they develop a golden color. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until softened. Add the diced red and green bell peppers, continuing to cook until the vegetables are tender.

Add Rice and Spices: Stir in the rice, coating it in the oil and allowing it to toast for a couple of minutes. Add the bay leaf, diced tomato, frozen peas, and sliced olives. Mix well.

Combine Chicken and Broth: Return the seared chicken to the pot, nestling it into the rice mixture. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring it covers the rice and chicken. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender.

Finish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the bay leaf and discard it. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve the Arroz con Pollo hot, with lemon wedges on the side for a burst of citrusy flavor.

Enjoy your journey through the rich flavors of Argentina with this comforting and aromatic Arroz con Pollo!

Nutritional Values

The nutritional values for the ingredients in Arroz con Pollo can vary based on specific brands, cuts of chicken, and other factors. However, I can provide approximate values for common ingredients. Keep in mind that these values are for general reference and may not be completely accurate for your specific recipe.

Nutritional Values for Selected Ingredients (per serving, assuming 4 servings):

Long-grain white rice (1 cup cooked):

• Calories: 205
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 0.4g

benefits: A good source of energy, white rice is easily digestible and provides a quick energy boost. It is also low in fat and sodium.

Chicken (1.5 pounds, mixed cuts):

• Calories: 1060
• Protein: 120g
• Fat: 61g
• Carbohydrates: 0g

benefits: High in protein, chicken is essential for muscle repair and growth. It also provides important vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins, phosphorus, and selenium.

Onion (1 medium):

• Calories: 46
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g

benefits: Onions are rich in antioxidants and contain anti-inflammatory compounds. They also provide vitamin C and fiber, contributing to overall immune health and digestive well-being.

Bell peppers (1 medium each, red and green):

• Calories: 25
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g

benefits: Bell peppers are a great source of vitamin C, which supports the immune system. They also provide fiber, vitamins A and E, and antioxidants.

Tomato (1 medium):

• Calories: 22
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g

benefits: Tomatoes are rich in vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants like lycopene. They may contribute to heart health and have anti-cancer propert

Frozen peas (1/2 cup):

• Calories: 31
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 0g

benefits: Peas are a good source of protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. They contribute to digestive health and provide sustained energy.

Green olives (1/2 cup, sliced):

• Calories: 73
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 6g

benefits: Olives contain healthy monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. They also provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

Vegetable oil (1/4 cup):

• Calories: 488
• Fat: 56g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g

benefits: While high in calories, vegetable oil provides essential fatty acids and vitamin E. It adds moisture to the dish and aids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

Chicken broth (4 cups, homemade or low-sodium):

• Calories: 40
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 1g

benefits: Chicken broth provides hydration and contains nutrients extracted from the chicken, including amino acids, collagen, and minerals.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific product brands and preparation methods. Additionally, the serving sizes are estimates based on a recipe serving four people. Adjustments may be needed based on your specific dietary requirements and the actual quantities used in your recipe.