Filipino Spinach Rice Recipe

Welcome to Rice Cookers 101! Today, we will be exploring a delicious and nutritious meal inspired by the exquisite Filipino cuisine. Our recipe features spinach, garlic, and rice all cooked to perfection in your trusty rice cooker. This dish is not only easy to make but also packs a punch in terms of flavor and health benefits. So, let’s get cooking! We’ve made this filipino spinach rice recipe easy to follow 👨‍🍳. If you’re looking for our favorite rice cookers to make this recipe, check out our list of top rice cookers here.

Ingredients

• 2 cups uncooked white rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, heat the 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat.
3. Add the 3 cloves of minced garlic and 1 chopped onion and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the rice and stir to coat with the garlic and onions. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Add the 1 cup of chicken broth, 2 cups of water, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper to the saucepan.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid.
7. Cook the rice for 18-20 minutes, until all the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender.
8. During the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the 2 cups of chopped spinach leaves to the rice and stir gently to combine.
9. Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5-10 minutes to absorb any remaining liquid and fluff up the rice.
10. Fluff the rice with a fork, then serve hot as a delicious side dish or main course.

How long does filipino spinach rice last in the fridge?

Filipino spinach rice, also known as “Malunggay Rice,” can be stored in the fridge after cooking for up to four days if it has been stored properly. To store the rice, allow it to cool to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container, and store it in the fridge. It is important to ensure that the rice is thoroughly reheated before consuming to reduce the risk of foodborne illness. If you want to store the rice for longer, consider freezing it in an airtight container for up to two months.

Low calorie filipino spinach rice recipe substitutions

To make this Filipino spinach rice recipe lower calorie, there are a few substitutions that can be made. Firstly, replace the white rice with brown rice or cauliflower rice, which are both lower in calories and higher in fiber. Secondly, use low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth instead of regular chicken broth, or simply omit the broth altogether and use more water. Thirdly, reduce the amount of oil used and opt for a healthier oil, such as olive oil or coconut oil. Finally, reduce the amount of salt used or use a low-sodium salt substitute. These substitutions will not only decrease the calorie content of the dish but will also make it healthier and more nutrient-dense.

What to serve with a filipino spinach rice?

Filipino spinach rice, also known as “arroz verde,” is a flavorful and nutritious side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. One great option would be to serve it alongside grilled seafood or fish, such as tilapia or shrimp. The bright, fresh flavors of the spinach rice will complement the natural sweetness and subtle saltiness of the seafood, while the green color will add a pop of visual interest to the plate. Alternatively, you could also serve the spinach rice alongside a hearty meat dish, such as a marinated flank steak or roasted chicken. The rice’s bold flavors will be a great match for the rich, savory taste of the meat, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Whats the best sauce for a filipino spinach rice?

For Filipino spinach rice, a great sauce to pair with it would be a classic Filipino condiment called Sarsa ng Lechon. It is a savory and slightly sweet sauce made with vinegar, sugar, garlic, onion, soy sauce, and roasted pork liver. The acidity of the vinegar and the umami flavor from the pork liver balances the richness of the spinach rice. It also adds a wonderful depth of flavor that complements the dish very well. Sarsa ng Lechon can be easily made at home or purchased in Filipino grocery stores.

Filipino spinach rice health benefits

Filipino spinach rice is a nutritious dish that offers several health benefits. Spinach is a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help in boosting immunity and reducing inflammation. It is also a good source of dietary fiber which aids in digestion and may lower the risk of heart disease. Brown rice which is commonly used in this dish is a whole grain that is rich in fiber, B-vitamins and minerals. In addition, this recipe uses coconut milk which contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that can increase energy expenditure and may help with weight management. Overall, this dish is a healthy and delicious way to incorporate greens and whole grains into your diet.If you’re looking for a different recipe that could be even healthier, you might consider trying a vegetable stir fry. This dish can be customized with a variety of vegetables, such as broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, and mushrooms. Stir fried vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber that can improve your overall health. Additionally, this recipe can be prepared using healthy cooking oils such as olive oil, and can be seasoned with herbs and spices to add flavor without adding excess sodium.