Vegan Puerto Rican Arroz con Gandules: Traditional Flavor Update

Vegan Puerto Rican Arroz con Gandules: A Flavorful and Cultural Delight

In the heart of Puerto Rican cuisine, there’s a dish that stands out for its vibrant flavors and rich cultural significance: Arroz con Gandules, or rice with pigeon peas. This traditional recipe is a staple at family gatherings, celebrations, and even everyday meals. Here’s how you can make a delicious vegan version that captures the essence of this beloved dish.

The Cultural Significance

Arroz con Gandules is more than just a meal; it’s a symbol of community and tradition. In Puerto Rico, this dish is often served at holidays and special occasions, bringing people together with its aromatic and savory flavors. The combination of rice, pigeon peas, and a blend of spices creates a harmony that is both comforting and celebratory.

Ingredients

To make this vegan version, you’ll need:

• 2 cups medium-grain rice, washed and rinsed
• 1/3 cup sofrito (see Sofrito Base Preparation below)
• 1 cup pigeon peas (gandules)
• 1/2 white onion, chopped
• 1-2 red sweet peppers, chopped
• 1 cubanelle pepper, chopped
• 1 tsp adobo seasoning blend (see Adobo Seasoning Blend below)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Pinch of sea salt
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1 tbsp olives stuffed with minced peppers
• Handful of cilantro leaves, chopped

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, mix together:

• 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:

   • Heat the olive oil or annatto oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
   • Add the grated garlic, diced onions, bell peppers, Cubanelle pepper, and ají dulce peppers. Cook until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
   • Stir in the chopped cilantro and culantro, along with the tomato sauce or puree. Let it simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors.

2. Cook the Rice:

   • In the same skillet or Dutch oven, add the chopped white onion and cook until translucent.
   • Add the chopped sweet peppers and cubanelle pepper, cooking for another 3 minutes until fragrant.
   • Stir in the pigeon peas, adobo seasoning blend, dried oregano, and a pinch of sea salt.

3. Combine and Cook:

   • Add the rice to the skillet or Dutch oven and fold it into the vegetable mixture.
   • Immediately add the vegetable broth, tomato sauce, and olives. Stir just once and let it cook over medium heat until the liquid is evaporated, which will take about 8-10 minutes.
   • Gently stir the rice from the bottom up. Lower the heat to low and cook, covered, until the rice is tender, about 15 minutes.

4. Final Touches:

   • Remove the rice from the heat and gently stir it from the bottom up. Cover and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
   • Garnish with chopped cilantro leaves.

Tips and Variations

• Protein Addition: If you prefer a heartier dish, you can add some sautéed mushrooms or beans instead of TVP, tofu, or tempeh. Beans are an excellent option as they naturally pair well with rice and pigeon peas.
• Flavor Balance: A splash of white vinegar can be added towards the end of cooking to balance the flavors and enhance the overall taste.
• Affordable Option: TVP (Textured Vegetable Protein) is a very affordable and easily available option in Puerto Rico, making it a great alternative if you choose to use it.

Serving Suggestions

Arroz con Gandules is versatile and can be served as a main dish or as a side. Here are some ways to enjoy it:

• Traditional Pairing: Serve it with mofongo or sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Modern Twist: Pair it with roasted vegetables or a side salad for a lighter option.
• Additional Flair: Add some fried plantains or sliced avocado to keep the Puerto Rican theme alive.

This vegan Arroz con Gandules is a celebration of flavors and traditions, bringing the heart of Puerto Rican cuisine to your table. With its rich sofrito, aromatic spices, and comforting pigeon peas, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. So, go ahead and cook up a pot, and let the vibrant flavors transport you to the sunny islands of Puerto Rico