Are you ready for a culinary journey to the beautiful island of Guam? Then get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this vibrant and flavorful Guam red rice recipe! This isn’t your average rice dish; it’s a staple in Chamorro cuisine, bursting with savory umami and a hint of sweetness. It's incredibly easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, and impressive enough to serve at any gathering. This recipe offers a delicious and healthy meal, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 cup red rice (uncooked) – this gives the dish its signature color and texture
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or to taste, depending on your preference)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the canola oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cumin, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
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Bloom the Rice: Add the white rice and red rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the oil and aromatics. This helps to toast the grains slightly, enhancing their flavor. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
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Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth, water, soy sauce, and tomato paste. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly. Season with salt and pepper.
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Simmer to Perfection: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for about 40-45 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
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Fluff and Serve: Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest, covered, for 5-10 minutes. This allows the steam to finish cooking the rice and helps it to become fluffy and separate nicely. Fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving.
Cooking Tips for the Best Guam Red Rice:
- Rinse your rice: Before cooking, rinsing the rice under cold water helps remove excess starch, resulting in fluffier rice.
- Don't lift the lid: Resist the urge to peek or lift the lid during the simmering process. This allows the steam to do its work and prevents the rice from becoming dry.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of soy sauce, salt, and pepper to your liking. Some people prefer a saltier or more savory dish.
Delicious Variations:
- Add protein: Incorporate cooked shredded chicken, pork, or beef for a heartier meal.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Veggie boost: Include chopped bell peppers, carrots, or peas for extra nutrients and color.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Protein: 5-7g Carbohydrates: 50-60g Fiber: 2-3g
This Guam red rice recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish, perfect for those looking for healthy meals and homemade cooking options. Enjoy this taste of the Pacific! It's a delicious and easy recipe that will quickly become a favorite in your home. This recipe represents delicious dishes and is among the best recipes for its simplicity and flavor. Try it and experience the magic of Guam's culinary heritage.