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Arroz Poblano
Arroz Poblano is a classic Mexican rice dish packed with deep, earthy flavors. Fire-roasting the poblano peppers before blending them with onion and garlic creates a rich, smoky base that absorbs right into the grains. Baking the rice ensures a perfectly fluffy texture without any mushiness. It makes an excellent side dish for weeknight taco dinners or weekend entertaining. Fresh cilantro adds a bright herbal finish to balance the savory broth.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (211 g) long-grain white rice
- 2 poblano chile peppers, fire roasted, stemmed and seeded ( here )
- ½ white onion, dry roasted ( here )
- 2 garlic cloves, dry roasted and peeled ( here )
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ cup (120 ml) hot water
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) canola oil
- 1 cup (240 ml) vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 fresh cilantro sprigs
Instructions
- 1Set your oven to 350°F (177°C).
- 2Put the long-grain white rice in a large bowl, cover it completely with cool water, and let it soak for 5 minutes.
- 3Pour the rice into a colander to drain. Rinse it under cold running water for 2 to 3 minutes until the water runs completely clear.
- 4Give the colander a good shake to knock off excess moisture. Leave it in the sink for 3 to 4 minutes to finish draining.
- 5Combine the roasted poblano peppers, dry-roasted onion, garlic, salt, and hot water in a blender. Process the mixture for 1 to 2 minutes until it is completely smooth.
- 6Warm the canola oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat until it shimmers.
- 7Pour the drained rice into the hot oil all at once. Cook for about 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the grains start to turn light brown.
- 8Pour the blended poblano mixture and the broth into the saucepan with the rice. Stir well and bring the liquid to a full boil, then taste the broth and add more salt if needed.
- 9Move the boiling rice mixture into a large baking dish. Lay the fresh cilantro sprigs right on top.
- 10Seal the baking dish tightly with a lid or a sheet of aluminum foil. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the rice is tender but still has a slight bite.
- 11Take the dish out of the oven and fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving.