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Arroz Verde Recipe

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4.2 from 38 reviews

Arroz Verde is a vibrant green rice dish made by blending fresh herbs and vegetables into a flavorful paste that is stirred into tender, simmered rice. This Mexican-inspired recipe uses cilantro, spinach, green onions, and lime to create a bright, aromatic side dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of mains. It’s easy to prepare on the stovetop and can be customized with proteins or extra vegetables for a heartier meal.

Ingredients

Broth and Rice

  • 4 cups chicken broth (or bone broth, divided)
  • 1 bay leaf (optional)
  • 2 cups white rice

Green Paste

  • 1/2 cup cilantro
  • 2 cups baby spinach leaves
  • 4 green onions (coarsely chopped)
  • 1 lime (zested, plus 1 Tablespoon lime juice)
  • 1 Tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Seasoning

  • Salt and pepper (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Boil Broth and Cook Rice: In a medium pot, add 3 ½ cups of chicken broth and the bay leaf, then bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, add 2 cups of white rice, cover the pot, and reduce the heat to low to simmer for 15-18 minutes, until the rice is cooked and tender.
  2. Prepare Green Paste: While the rice cooks, combine ½ cup cilantro, 2 cups baby spinach, 4 chopped green onions, lime zest, 1 tablespoon lime juice, 1 tablespoon olive oil, ½ teaspoon salt, and the remaining ½ cup broth in a food processor or blender. Pulse until you achieve a coarse green paste.
  3. Mix Paste into Rice: After the rice has finished cooking, remove the pot from heat and discard the bay leaf. Stir the green paste into the hot rice thoroughly, then cover again and let stand for a few minutes to allow flavors to meld and the rice to absorb the vibrant seasoning.
  4. Fluff and Season: Fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate grains. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use the freshest herbs and vegetables for the best vibrant green color and flavor.
  • Rinse rice under cold water until clear before cooking to remove excess starch and yield fluffier rice.
  • Mix the green paste into rice off the heat to avoid overcooking the herbs and losing brightness.
  • For added protein, stir in shredded chicken, cooked shrimp, grilled steak, or tofu.
  • Boost nutrition and color by adding peas, arugula, zucchini, or avocado chunks.
  • Add mild heat by blending jalapenos, poblano, or Anaheim peppers into the green paste.
  • Try brown rice or cauliflower rice alternatives instead of white rice.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3-4 days and reheat with broth to maintain moisture.

Find it online: https://deliciousyum.com/arroz-verde-recipe/