Arroz con Gandules

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 pound bacon, diced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground red pepper
• 1 cup white rice
• 1 can (15 ounces) pigeon peas, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Directions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the bacon and cook until crispy.
2. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic and cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the oregano, cumin, salt, black pepper, and red pepper and stir to combine.
4. Add the rice and stir to coat with the bacon mixture.
5. Add the pigeon peas and chicken broth and stir to combine.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
7. Remove from the heat and let stand, covered, for 10 minutes.
8. Stir in the cilantro and serve.

Interesting Facts

• Arroz con gandules is a traditional Puerto Rican dish and is usually served with fried plantains.
• Gandules are a type of legume, similar to black-eyed peas.
• Pigeon peas are high in protein and a good source of dietary fiber.
• This dish can be made vegetarian by omitting the bacon and using vegetable broth.