Vegan Arroz con Maíz Puerto Rican Yellow Rice with Corn Recipe

Vegan Arroz con Maíz: A Delicious and Traditional Puerto Rican Dish

In the heart of Puerto Rican cuisine, there’s a dish that warms the soul and fills the senses with its vibrant flavors and comforting texture: Arroz con Maíz, or yellow rice with corn. This humble dish is a staple in many Puerto Rican households, and with a few simple tweaks, it can be transformed into a delicious vegan version that everyone can enjoy.

The Cultural Significance of Arroz con Maíz

Arroz con Maíz is more than just a meal; it’s a tradition that brings families and friends together. It’s often served at gatherings, celebrations, and even everyday meals. The combination of tender rice, sweet corn, and aromatic spices creates a flavor profile that is quintessentially Puerto Rican.

Ingredients

To make this vegan version of Arroz con Maíz, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 2 Tbsp Sofrito (see Sofrito Base Preparation below)
• 1 Tbsp Tomato Sauce or Ketchup
• 3 Cups White Rice, rinsed
• 1 lb (16oz) of Frozen Sweet Corn
• 1 1/2 Packets of Sazón (seasoning)
• 2 Tsp Adobo Seasoning Blend (see below)
• 5 Cups of Water

Sofrito Base Preparation

For the sofrito, you’ll need:

• 1/4 cup Olive Oil or Annatto Oil
• 12 cloves garlic, finely grated
• 1 large white onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, seeds and ribs removed, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, seeds and ribs removed, diced
• 1 Cubanelle pepper, seeds and ribs removed, diced
• 5 ají dulce peppers, seeds and ribs removed
• 1/2 cup cilantro, finely chopped
• 7 sprigs of culantro (5 finely chopped, 2 whole)
• 1 cup tomato sauce or puree

Adobo Seasoning Blend

For the adobo seasoning, mix:

• 1 tbsp Kosher Salt
• 1 tbsp Onion Powder
• 1 tbsp Garlic Powder
• 1 tbsp Smoked Paprika
• 1 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper
• 1 tsp Ground Cumin
• 1 tsp Dried Oregano

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sofrito: In a blender or food processor, combine the olive oil, garlic, onions, bell peppers, Cubanelle pepper, ají dulce peppers, cilantro, and culantro. Blend until you get a smooth paste. Add the tomato sauce or puree and blend until well combined.

2. Cook the Rice: In a large caldero or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over high heat. Add the sofrito and tomato sauce or ketchup, and heat for about two minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Add the Rice and Corn: Add the frozen corn, rinsed rice, sazón seasoning, adobo seasoning blend, and water to the pot. Stir well to combine.

4. Bring to a Boil: Allow the mixture to come to a boil. As it cooks, the rice will absorb the water. This will take about 10 minutes.

5. Stir and Cover: Once the water has been absorbed, gently stir the rice a few times to prevent it from becoming mushy. Remove the pot from the heat, cover it with a lid, and let it sit for a few minutes.

6. Finish Cooking: Place the pot back on the stove over low heat and let it cook for another 10 minutes. Then, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 10 minutes. This will allow the rice to continue cooking and become fluffy.

7. Serve: Once the rice is ready, fluff it with a fork and serve hot.

Adding Protein

To make this dish more substantial, you can add some protein-rich ingredients. Here are a few suggestions:

• Garbanzo Beans/Chickpeas: These can be added directly to the rice mixture for an extra boost of protein and fiber.
• TVP (Textured Vegetable Protein): TVP is widely available in Puerto Rico and is a very affordable option. It can be rehydrated and added to the rice for a meat-like texture.
• Tofu or Tempeh: These can be cubed and added to the dish, providing a protein-rich alternative to traditional meat.

Serving Suggestions

Arroz con Maíz is versatile and can be served in various ways. Here are a few ideas:

• With Beans: Pair it with a side of black beans or chickpeas for a complete and satisfying meal.
• With Vegetables: Add some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to add color and nutrients.
• With Tofu or Tempeh: Marinate and cook tofu or tempeh and serve it on top of the rice for a protein-packed meal.

This vegan Arroz con Maíz is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Puerto Rico, adapted to fit modern dietary preferences. It’s a dish that will warm your heart and fill your belly, reminding you of the vibrant flavors and traditions that make Puerto Rican cuisine so special. So go ahead, give it a try, and let the aromas and tastes transport you to the beautiful island of Puerto Rico.

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