THE RECIPE JOURNAL · Main Course
Savory Puerto Rican Rice and Beans (Arroz con Gandules)
This flavorful dish brings together tender pigeon peas and perfectly seasoned rice for a true taste of Puerto Rico. It's a comforting, hearty meal that's easy to make and sure to become a family favorite.
FROM THE KITCHEN • Savory Puerto Rican Rice and Beans (Arroz con Gandules)
01 THE RECIPE
Let's make it.
Follow these steps for a delicious result. Tick off each step as you go.
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01
Step 1
Start by heating some olive oil in a medium-sized pot or a nonstick pan over medium heat. Add the sofrito, garlic, sazon, and adobo, and cook everything together for about 4 minutes, being careful not to let the garlic burn. Next, stir in the rice, making sure each grain gets coated with the flavorful mixture. Pour in the chicken broth and water, give it a good stir, and bring it all to a boil.
02
Step 2
Once boiling, turn the heat up to medium-high and let it cook uncovered until the liquid is mostly absorbed and you see little holes forming on the surface of the rice—this usually takes around 20 to 25 minutes. Then, lower the heat to low and gently fold in the peas and chopped cilantro, stirring just once or twice from the bottom up so you don’t break up the rice too much. Cover the pot and let it sit off the heat for about 10 minutes.
03
Step 3
Finally, turn off the stove completely and let the rice rest, uncovered, for another 10 minutes. This helps the flavors settle and the rice finish cooking perfectly.
Why you’ll love it
This dish is a flavorful and comforting staple that brings together tender pigeon peas and seasoned rice in a way that’s both hearty and satisfying. Its blend of spices and sofrito creates a rich, aromatic experience that feels like a warm hug from the Caribbean.
How to serve
Pair this dish with roasted pork, grilled chicken, or fried plantains for a complete meal. A simple green salad or avocado slices also complement the rich flavors nicely and add freshness to the plate.
Storage & leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently with a sprinkle of water to keep the rice moist. This dish also freezes well—defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.
