A easy weeknight meal topped with a fried egg that’s great for breakfast, too.
In my husband and late mothers native Puerto Rico, rice dishes are a staple.
Growing up, my mother would throw together rice dishes when money was stretched a little too thin.
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My mother was from el campo, or the countryside, of Puerto Rico.
(As a result, were pretty uncertain as to my mothers actual birthdate.)
My mother remembered little about the island, except that rice was an everyday dish at mealtimes.
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And it wasnt just for dinner, either.
No, rice was good for morning, noon,andevening meals.
What Is Salt Pork and How Is It Used?
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Pork was also a daily part of thejibaros(country folk) diet.
It also stays true to the country roots of the dish.
You’ll need to blanch the salt pork in simmering water for 15 minutes prior to cutting.
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After cooking, rinse off the pork and allow it to cool before proceeding.
If you’re using bacon, you’re able to skip the blanching process.
This will turn the dish intoarroz con tocineta, but will still taste great, regardless.
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Put an Egg On It!
Growing up,arroz con tocinowas a quick meal that was economical for a large family.
you could find it in the Hispanic section of your supermarket.
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This step eliminates additional starch which may cause the rice to become gummy.
Set the colander aside and allow the rice to drain thoroughly.
Place the pork in simmering water for 15 minutes.
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After cooking, rinse off the pork and allow it to cool before proceeding.
(If you’re using bacon, you’ve got the option to skip this step.)
Remove the pork pieces from the pot using a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
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Drain all but 2 tablespoons of pork fat from the pot.
Add the onions and cook for 2 minutes, or until glossy.
Add the minced garlic and recaito to the onions, and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
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Continue to stir, toasting the rice for about a minute.
Add the water and pepper, then bring to a boil.
Once the water has started boiling, reduce the heat to low.
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Place a sheet of aluminum foil over the pot.
check that the foil has about 2 in overhang.
Place the lid onto the pot and press down.
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This addition of foil creates a more air-tight seal which helps to steam the rice perfectly.
Cook the rice for twenty minutes without removing the lid.
Remove the lid and check that the rice is done; recover and continue to steam if needed.
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Once the rice has cooked fully, remove the lid and fluff with a spoon or a large fork.
Fold the reserved pieces of pork in the cooked rice and garnish with cilantro, if desired.
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