Welcome to Rice Cookers 101! Today, we will be transporting your taste buds to the vibrant cuisine of Peru with our delicious Peruvian Asparagus Rice recipe. This easy-to-follow recipe combines the subtle flavors of rice with the freshness of asparagus, the zest of lime, and a pinch of spice to create a delightful dish that is sure to please. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests at a dinner party, this recipe is a perfect addition to your rice cooker repertoire. So, grab your ingredients and let’s get started! We’ve made this peruvian asparagus 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.

peruvian asparagus rice ingredients

Ingredients

  • 1 cup of long-grain rice
  • 2 cups of water
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed and chopped into small pieces
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 cup long-grain rice under cold water in a fine mesh strainer and soak it for 30 minutes to an hour.
  2. In a pot, bring 2 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of salt to a boil. Add the rice and stir gently. Then reduce heat to a low simmer and cook lightly covered for 20 minutes.
  3. While the rice is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté 1 chopped onion for 3 minutes until they become translucent.
  4. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 bunch of small chopped asparagus into the pan. Cover and cook for 5 minutes until the asparagus is tender.
  5. When the rice is done, add the cooked asparagus mixture, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh cilantro, and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley. Gently stir until all ingredients are combined.
  6. Serve hot and enjoy your Peruvian Asparagus Rice!

peruvian asparagus rice

How long does peruvian asparagus rice last in the fridge?

Peruvian Asparagus Rice can generally be stored in the fridge for up to four days after cooking. It is essential to store leftover rice in an airtight container to prevent moisture buildup and the growth of bacteria. Before storing, allow the rice to cool to room temperature and divide it into small portions. To reheat, sprinkle some water on the rice and microwave for a couple of minutes, or heat it in a saucepan with a little oil or butter. Avoid reheating the rice multiple times as this may cause it to dry out and lose its texture. It is best to consume the rice within two days of cooking for optimal freshness and flavor.

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Low calorie peruvian asparagus rice recipe substitutions

To make this recipe lower in calories, there are a few substitutions you could make. Instead of using long-grain rice, you could switch to a lower calorie rice such as brown rice or quinoa. You could also reduce the amount of oil used by halving the suggested amount, or using a spray oil instead. Additionally, you could reduce the amount of salt used to cut down on sodium intake. Finally, you could opt for lighter herbs such as basil or chives instead of parsley and cilantro, or omit them altogether. These adjustments would help make the recipe lower in overall calories and healthier overall.

What to serve with a peruvian asparagus rice?

Peruvian asparagus rice pairs well with a variety of proteins such as grilled chicken or fish. You can also add a side of roasted vegetables such as zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or cauliflower to add a delicious touch of freshness and color. To complement the dish even further, consider serving a flavorful Peruvian sauce like huacatay or ají amarillo on the side. Finally, a refreshing Peruvian drink like chicha morada or maracuyá (passion fruit) juice would be an excellent addition to complete this authentic South American meal.

Whats the best sauce for a peruvian asparagus rice?

The best sauce for Peruvian asparagus rice is Aji Verde, a spicy and creamy sauce made with jalapenos, cilantro, garlic, and mayonnaise. The sauce complements the fresh and earthy flavors of asparagus in the rice and adds a kick of spice that balances out the richness of the dish. To make Aji Verde, blend together 2-3 seeded jalapenos, 1/2 cup of chopped fresh cilantro, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 1/4 cup of sour cream, and 1 tablespoon of lime juice until smooth. Serve the sauce on the side or drizzle it over the rice.

Peruvian asparagus rice health benefits

Peruvian asparagus rice provides several health benefits. Asparagus is a nutrient-rich vegetable that is low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. It contains high levels of folate which is essential for pregnant women. Rice provides carbohydrates which are important for energy, and it is a good source of essential minerals such as magnesium, selenium, and manganese. Additionally, this dish is a healthier alternative to traditional rice dishes as it uses low-sodium chicken broth instead of oil or butter. If you would like an even healthier option, you may want to try a dish that includes quinoa or roasted vegetables.

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