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Easy Pollo Tropical Yellow Rice Recipe

Pollo Tropical Yellow Rice Recipe

Tina Cooper
When I first tasted Pollo Tropical yellow rice, it was like a burst of sunshine on my plate. It transported me to a tropical paradise, even when I was stuck in the mundane routine of daily life.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Latin
Servings 8 Servings
Calories 210 kcal

Equipment

  • medium pot

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups water
  • 2 cups long grain uncooked rice
  • 1 large chicken or vegetable bouillon cube such as Knorr or Maggi
  • 1 packet Badia Sazon seasoning or use homemade sazon seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt adjust to taste
  • 4 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 5 medium scallions finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 medium tomato diced
  • 1/2 cup fresh chopped cilantro
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin optional, for extra flavor
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric optional, for added color and warmth

Instructions
 

  • Making Pollo Tropical yellow rice is straightforward and takes minimal effort. Let me break it down for you.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

  • Gather all your ingredients. Chop the scallions, mince the garlic, and dice the tomato. Fresh ingredients are key. Then, set up a pot on your stove and measure out the rice.

Step 2: Start with the Base

  • In a medium pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and chopped scallions. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This aromatic mixture will be the foundation of flavor for the rice.

Step 3: Add the Rice

  • Next, it’s time for the rice. Add in the uncooked long-grain rice and stir it in with the oil, garlic, and scallions. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes. This step toasting the rice enhances its nutty flavor, giving it more character.

Step 4: Introduce Liquid and Seasonings

  • Now, pour in the 4 cups of water. Add the chicken or vegetable bouillon cube and season it with Badia Sazon and salt. Stir well until the bouillon dissolves. If you’re using cumin and turmeric, this is the time to add them in too.

Step 5: Simmer Away

  • Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the rice is fluffy and all the water has absorbed.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

  • Once cooked, remove the pot from heat. Gently stir in the diced tomatoes and chopped cilantro. Cover again for another 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Step 7: Serve

  • Scoop your beautiful yellow rice onto a plate and serve it warm. You can garnish it with extra cilantro if you fancy. Enjoy every bite!

Notes

Here are some helpful tips that I wish I knew before making my first batch!
  • Rinse the Rice: Rinsing the rice can help remove excess starch and helps it cook more evenly.
  • Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality bouillon cubes make a big difference. Don’t skimp here.
  • Taste as You Go: Flavors can differ based on the saltiness of your bouillon, so taste and adjust as needed.
  • Customize: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite veggies. Peas or corn can be great additions to the rice.
  • Let It Rest: Allowing the rice to rest after cooking helps with texture and flavor melding.

Nutrition

Calories: 210kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 4gFat: 5gFiber: 2g
Keyword Pollo Tropical Yellow Rice Recipe
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