| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 30 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 345 | 6g | 1g | 55g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 5g | 3g | 10g | 0.3g |
There’s something sublime about a familiar dish that has been rejuvenated with a fresh, flavorful twist. Cooking, for me, has always been a journey of discovery and creation. That’s why I am thrilled to share with you a recipe that embodies both my culinary heritage and exploratory spirit: Annatto Rice.
The Magic of Fusion Cuisine
The beauty of Annatto Rice lies not only in its vibrant color but also in its fusion of flavors. As a Boston native with Irish roots, my kitchen has always been a medley of New England seafood and Irish comfort food. However, my fiancée Laura and I love to experiment and add our zest in our recipes; and thus, the Annatto Rice was born. A hearty dish, it combines traditional rice fare with a tropical hint from mixed fresh fruit of mango and pineapple. The result is a plateful of comfort, warmth, and a fruity freshness that makes each bite an exciting adventure for your tastebuds.
Nutrition and Taste in Perfect Harmony
The Annatto Rice shows that food can be tasty without compromising on health. Let me explain; firstly, annatto seeds, renowned for their vibrant hue also possess numerous health benefits. They are rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body against damage from harmful molecules called free radicals. Secondly, the mixed fresh fruit not only adds a novel taste but also brings in heaps of nutrients. As the saying goes, ‘An apple a day keeps the doctor away’! Hence, here’ we’re taking it up a notch with a tropical twist of mangoes and pineapples, both of which are packed with essential vitamins and fibers.
This colorful, flavorful, and nutritious dish stands on its own proudly. However, if you desire a fuller meal, it pairs exceptionally well with pan-roasted chicken thighs or New England’s staple seafood chowder. As with every recipe, feel free to make this your own. Experiment with the herbs, choose your favorite fruits or even change up the kind of rice. Culinary adventures are more fun when you’re steering the ship!
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups long grain white rice
- 1 tablespoon annatto seeds
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup mixed chopped fresh herbs such as cilantro and parsley
- 1 cup mixed fresh fruit such as mango and pineapple, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method
Step One
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This will remove any excess starch and ensure your rice doesn’t stick together.
Step Two
In a large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and add in your annatto seeds. Stir the seeds around in the oil over medium heat until the oil starts to change color. Once you see a red-orange color, remove the seeds and discard them.
Step Three
In the same pan with the annatto-infused oil, add the finely chopped onion, diced green bell pepper, minced garlic, and diced tomatoes. Cook over medium heat until the vegetables are tender and the onion is translucent.
Step Four
Add the rinsed rice to the pan with the vegetables and stir to coat all the grains in the annatto oil mixture. Continue to cook the rice, stirring frequently, until it starts to lightly brown.
Step Five
Pour in the chicken stock and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, cover the pan with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and allow the rice to simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
Step Six
While the rice is cooking, prepare your fresh herbs and fruit. Chop the cilantro and parsley and dice the mango and pineapple.
Step Seven
Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add in the chopped herbs and fruit. Stir everything together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step Eight
Serve the annatto rice hot, perhaps as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish. Enjoy your colorful and flavorful dish!
