Shrimp and Rice

There’s something special about making Shrimp and Rice on a cozy evening. As I stood in my kitchen, the savory aroma of sautéing vegetables filled the air, instantly making me nostalgic. This dish has been a family favorite for as long as I can remember. I often recall those evenings when my family would gather around the table, laughter and stories flowing while we enjoyed a hearty meal together. The combination of tender shrimp and perfectly cooked rice brings a comforting warmth that’s simply irresistible. Not to mention, it’s a dish that can easily be prepared without much fuss, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a weekend gathering.

What You Need for Shrimp and Rice

When preparing Shrimp and Rice, you want to ensure the ingredients complement each other harmoniously. The richness of the shrimp paired with the fluffy rice creates a delightful experience. Key players like olive oil, onion, garlic, and Sazon seasoning come together to create depth in flavor, while the freshness of cilantro and bell pepper adds brightness.

• 4 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil, divided – This oil provides a rich base flavor.
• 1 small onion, chopped and divided – Onions add sweetness and depth.
• 4 garlic cloves, minced and divided – Garlic enhances the overall aroma and taste.
• 1 1/4 cups uncooked long grain rice – This is the heart of the dish, absorbing all the flavors.
• 2 1/2 cups chicken bone broth – A flavorful liquid that infuses the rice.
• 1 teaspoon Sazon seasoning with achiote – This seasoning energizes the dish with vibrant flavors.
• 1 medium bell pepper, finely diced – Adds a sweet crunch and color.
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, divided plus more for garnish – For an aromatic finish.
• 1 1/4 pounds shrimp, peeled and deveined – The star protein of the dish.
• 1 tablespoon salsa Lizano – A unique sauce that amplifies flavors.

Cooking Method for Shrimp and Rice

Cooking Shrimp and Rice is both straightforward and rewarding. You’ll find that each step is crucial, ensuring that the shrimp is perfectly cooked and the rice is fluffy. Let’s dive into the details!

1. Start by heating 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a medium heavy pot over medium heat. Add half of the chopped onion, half of the chopped cilantro, and half of the minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the mixture is tender and fragrant. The aroma will fill your kitchen.
2. Next, add the rice, chicken bone broth, and Sazon seasoning. Stir them together and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, but stir only once. It’s important not to stir too much at this point to maintain the rice’s texture.
3. As the broth begins to boil, keep an eye on it. You’ll notice the water gradually evaporating and just barely skimming the top of the rice. Once that happens, reduce the heat to very low and cover the pot tightly. Cook for 15 minutes without lifting the lid. The steam is key to cooking the rice perfectly.
4. After 15 minutes, turn off the heat but let the pot sit for at least 5 more minutes without removing the lid. During this time, the steam will continue cooking the rice, ensuring it doesn’t burn at the bottom.
5. Once rested, use a fork to gently fluff the rice. Set it aside while you move on to the next steps.
6. In a large deep skillet, add the remaining olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the remaining chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook them until soft, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes.
7. Then, add the remaining minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. The combination of these sautéed vegetables creates a robust base for the shrimp.
8. Now it’s time to add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for about 3 minutes, or until they become opaque and fully cooked. Keep stirring occasionally to avoid any sticking.
9. Once the shrimp are ready, gently transfer the cooked rice into the skillet. Add the salsa Lizano and carefully stir until everything is well mixed.
10. Finally, garnish your dish with additional chopped cilantro before serving. This adds a fresh touch and a pop of color.

Pro Tips and Tweaks

Cooking Shrimp and Rice can be even more enjoyable with these tips. They enhance the dish and help you make it your own!

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Make sure it’s completely cooled before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve Shrimp and Rice with a fresh garden salad or some crusty bread to soak up the flavors.
• Variations: Feel free to add vegetables like peas or corn for extra color and nutrients. You can also experiment with spices based on your taste preference.
• Serving Style: This dish is great for family-style servings. Just place it in the center of the table and let everyone help themselves.
• Cookware Recommendation: Use a heavy-bottomed pot for even heat distribution while cooking the rice.

How to Enjoy Shrimp and Rice

Serving Shrimp and Rice is an experience in itself. Here’s how to elevate your serving game:

• With Fresh Sides: Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• As a Main Course: This dish shines as the star of your dinner table, perfect for a family meal or special occasions.
• On Special Days: Serve it during celebrations or gatherings, as it’s not just filling but also impressively delicious.
• For Lunch Leftovers: Enjoy the leftovers for lunch the next day. They taste even better after the flavors meld.
• Seasonal Variations: Consider adding seasonal vegetables for a fresh twist each time you make it.
• Garnishing: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime can really brighten up the flavors when serving.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Shrimp and Rice is a dish that combines simplicity with rich flavors, making it a great option for any occasion. This recipe brings the warmth of home cooking to your table, inviting loved ones to gather around and enjoy. I encourage you to try making it yourself—you won’t regret it. It’s a delightful way to create memories around food, one bite at a time.

Shrimp and Rice

The ultimate comfort food, Shrimp and Rice is a flavorful and satisfying dish perfect for easy weeknight dinners. Combining tender shrimp with fluffy rice and aromatic spices, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Make it tonight and enjoy a delicious meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Latin

Calories: 400

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil divided
• 1 small onion chopped and divided
• 4 cloves garlic minced and divided
• 1 1/4 cups long grain rice uncooked
• 2 1/2 cups chicken bone broth
• 1 teaspoon Sazon seasoning with achiote
• 1 medium bell pepper finely diced
• 1/4 cup cilantro chopped, divided plus more for garnish
• 1 1/4 pounds shrimp peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon salsa Lizano

Equipment

• Skillet
• Large Pot
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Peeler
• Wooden Spoon
• Cutting Board

Method

 

1. In a medium heavy pot with a tight fitting lid, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil on medium heat and sauté half of the onion, half of the cilantro, and half of the garlic for about 2 minutes, until tender.
2. Add rice, bone broth, and Sazon seasoning. Bring it to a boil on high heat, stirring only once at this point. As the water boils down and evaporates and just barely skims the top of the rice, reduce the heat to very low and cover for 15 minutes. The steam will cook the rice so do not open the lid.
3. After 15 minutes, shut the flame off and let it sit at least 5 more minutes without opening the lid. The steam will finish cooking the rice without burning the bottom. Then fluff with a fork.
4. While rice is cooking, heat the remaining oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add the remaining onions and the chopped bell peppers and cook until soft, 2 to 3 minutes. Add remaining garlic and cook until fragrant, 1 minute.
5. Add the shrimp and cook for 3 minutes, until opaque and cooked through.
6. When the rice is done cooking, transfer it to the skillet with the shrimp and add the salsa Lizano. Stir until mixed and garnish with cilantro.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Make sure it’s completely cooled before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve Shrimp and Rice with a fresh garden salad or some crusty bread to soak up the flavors.
• Variations: Feel free to add vegetables like peas or corn for extra color and nutrients. You can also experiment with spices based on your taste preference.
• Serving Style: This dish is great for family-style servings. Just place it in the center of the table and let everyone help themselves.
• Cookware Recommendation: Use a heavy-bottomed pot for even heat distribution while cooking the rice.

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Meet Fiona Lewis

I love cooking with the seasons and keeping things rustic and real. I believe the best meals are the ones shared with friends and family. I had so much fun creating this recipe, and I can't wait to hear what you think of it!