How long can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, prepare the sofrito and rice separately 1 day in advance, then combine and heat before serving.

Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, increase the cooking time according to package instructions for brown rice.

How do I adjust the heat level?

Add or omit cayenne pepper to your taste preference.

What if I don’t have fresh cilantro?

Substitute with fresh parsley or omit entirely for a milder flavor.

Spiced Cuban Sofrito Rice with Fresh Cilantro

Name: Spiced Cuban Sofrito Rice with Fresh Cilantro
Prep time: 50 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Side Dish
Ingredients: Green bell pepper; Onion; Garlic; Olive oil; Ground cumin; Smoked paprika; Long-grain white rice; Chicken or vegetable broth; Bay leaf; Fresh cilantro; Lime; Salt; Cayenne pepper

Aromatic Cuban-style rice enriched with a vibrant sofrito and fresh herbs.

Dive into the rich flavors of Cuban cuisine with this delightful spiced rice dish, made vibrant with a fresh cilantro finish. It's a perfect accompaniment to any meal and brings authentic Caribbean warmth to your plate.

50 min
4
Easy

Ingredients

For the Sofrito

Green bell pepper

1 medium, finely chopped

Onion

1 medium, finely chopped

Garlic

3 cloves, minced

Olive oil

2 tbsp

Ground cumin

1 tsp

Smoked paprika

1/2 tsp

For the Rice

Long-grain white rice

1 cup

Chicken or vegetable broth

2 cups

Bay leaf

For the Garnish

Fresh cilantro

1/4 cup, chopped

Lime

1, cut into wedges

Spice Mix

Salt

1/4 tsp

Cayenne pepper

Pinch (optional for heat)

Preparation

Making the Sofrito

Heat the Oil

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Add Aromatics

Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic.

Sauté Vegetables

Sauté until the onions are translucent and the peppers are softened.

Preparing the Rice

Rinse the Rice

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.

Rinse the rice well before cooking to remove excess starch for fluffier grains.

Combine Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, combine the rice with the broth, bay leaf, and spice mix.

Toast the rice lightly in the pan before adding the broth for an extra nutty flavor.

Cook Rice

Bring to a boil, then lower heat to a simmer and cover.

Avoid removing the lid while the rice is cooking for best results.

Cooking Process

Sofrito Preparation

Sauté the ingredients until fragrant and softened.

Rice Cooking

Simmer the rice on low heat until liquid is absorbed.

Combining

Fold the sofrito into the rice once cooking is complete.

Plating & Serving