Moro De Guandules Recipe

Cook Time: 48 minutes  

   Prep Time: 18 minutes

Moro De Guandules Ingredients

Moro De Guandules Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced smoked pork belly or bacon and cook, stirring occasionally, until the fat renders and the meat is golden and crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add the finely diced red onion and green bell pepper to the pot. Sauté, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until aromatic.
  5. Add the tomato paste and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes to caramelize and deepen the flavor.
  6. Mix in the chopped cilantro, parsley, dried oregano, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and bay leaves. Stir well to combine.
  7. Add the drained and rinsed pigeon peas (guandules) to the pot. Stir and cook for 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  8. Pour in the chicken stock and add the whole Scotch bonnet pepper (if using), kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.
  9. Once boiling, add the rice and stir well to distribute it evenly throughout the pot.
  10. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Do not uncover or stir during this time.
  11. Remove the pot from the heat. Discard the bay leaves and Scotch bonnet pepper.
  12. Add the unsalted butter to the rice, then gently fluff the rice with a fork to incorporate the butter and aerate the grains.
  13. Cover the pot again and let the rice rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle and the rice to finish steaming.

Estimated Calories: 250, Servings: 6

Recommended Dishes

Moro De Guandules Pairings

You know, when it comes to flavors, the Dominican Republic does not mess around. They throw in so many spices, you start to wonder if their grandmas are running a secret spice cartel. Seriously, the best part about Dominican flavors is that they hit you with a one-two punch: first, you get that savory, earthy taste, and then, boom, a little kick of something you cannot quite put your finger on. It is like a delicious mystery novel, except the only thing getting murdered is your bland taste buds. And let us be honest, if you are looking for a quick way to make your mouth do the merengue, Dominican flavors are the recipe for a good time.
Now, let us talk about sides, because you cannot just show up to a Dominican meal with one dish and call it a day. That is like showing up to a party with just a bag of ice. The best sides for a meal like this are things like tostones or a fresh avocado salad. You want something easy and fast, because who has time to spend all day in the kitchen? I mean, if I wanted to spend hours cooking, I would just open a restaurant and call it "Why Are You Still Here?" But really, a good side dish is like a wingman for your main course: it makes everything look better and keeps things from getting too lonely on the plate.
And drinks, oh man, the Dominican Republic knows how to keep things festive. You have got to try a nice, cold morir soñando, which is basically orange juice and milk having a delicious love affair. It is the best non-alcoholic drink to cool you down after all those bold flavors. Or, if you are feeling a little wild, a quick shot of mamajuana will have you dancing bachata with your neighbor's cat. The great thing is, whether you go healthy or just go for something that tastes good, Dominican drinks are always ready to party. Just remember, if you are making a recipe at home, keep it easy, keep it fast, and keep your glass full-because nothing says celebration like a drink in your hand and a smile on your face!

About Moro De Guandules Recipe

If you're on the hunt for the best, most delicious, and authentic rice dish, look no further than this homemade Moro De Guandules recipe. This Dominican classic is the perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a must-try for anyone who loves tasty, easy, and quick meals. The secret to the best Moro De Guandules lies in its simple ingredients-rice, pigeon peas, coconut milk, and a medley of spices that come together for a truly mouthwatering experience. If you've ever wondered how to make this iconic dish, you're in for a treat!
Let's talk about why this recipe is so beloved. Not only is it easy to follow, but it's also quick enough for busy weeknights and special enough for family gatherings. The combination of coconut milk and pigeon peas gives this Dominican favorite a unique, rich flavor that's both comforting and exciting. With a few tips and tricks, you'll have the perfect Moro De Guandules every time-no more rice disasters or bland bites! The best part? You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry, so you can whip up this tasty dish whenever the craving strikes.
If you're still wondering how to make the best Moro De Guandules, just remember: keep it simple, use fresh ingredients, and don't be afraid to add your own twist. This recipe is all about celebrating authentic flavors while keeping things easy and approachable. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, you'll love how quick and delicious this homemade dish turns out. So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress everyone with your perfect, tasty, and authentic Dominican rice creation!

Healthy Moro De Guandules Tips

Let's talk about making your favorite Dominican Moro De Guandules recipe healthier-because nothing says "I love you" like swapping out white rice for brown and pretending it's just as tasty! Seriously, if you want the best health results, go for whole grain rice. It's the easy, quick, and perfect way to sneak in more fiber without anyone noticing-unless they notice, in which case, just tell them it's the authentic, homemade version your abuela would have made if she had a nutritionist. And don't even get me started on the ingredients-ditch the lard, grab some olive oil, and suddenly your Moro De Guandules is so healthy, it might just start jogging on its own. That's the kind of delicious, simple upgrade that'll have your arteries sending you thank-you notes.
Now, let's talk about those peas-guandules, the real MVPs of this recipe. Want to make your Dominican dish the best for your health? Toss in extra veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or even spinach. It's the perfect way to boost vitamins and keep things colorful, because nothing says "I care about your health" like hiding vegetables in a tasty, authentic, homemade meal. And here's a hot tip: go easy on the salt and use fresh herbs for flavor. Your taste buds will be so distracted by the deliciousness, they won't even notice you're pulling a fast one on their sodium intake. So, if you want to know how to make the best, most health-conscious Moro De Guandules recipe, just remember: more veggies, less salt, and a whole lot of love-because nothing's healthier than a little culinary deception!

Moro De Guandules History

You know, the cultural origins of Moro De Guandules are like the best family reunion you never got invited to. It is a dish that says, "Hey, let us take a little bit of Africa, a dash of Spain, and a sprinkle of Taino, and see what happens!" And what happened was delicious. I mean, if you ever want to see a Dominican abuela get emotional, just mention a good pot of Moro. She will start telling you stories about how her grandmother made it, and suddenly you are in a three hour history lesson with a side of rice. It is the only history class where you leave full and happy, not just confused and hungry.
Now, let us talk about how the recipe evolved. Back in the day, making Moro De Guandules was not exactly a quick or easy process. You had to soak, simmer, and pray to the kitchen gods that your firewood did not run out. Fast forward to today, and people are out here making it in rice cookers, pressure cookers, and probably even air fryers. I saw someone try to make a "one pot, thirty minute, healthy, fast, and easy" version on YouTube. I am not saying it was bad, but their abuela probably unfollowed them on Instagram. The best part? No matter how you make it, someone will always say, "That is not how my mom does it." It is the great Dominican debate, right after "Who makes the best mangu?"
Regional adaptations are where things get wild. You go to the capital, and they are tossing olives in there like it is a martini. Head to the countryside, and suddenly there is coconut milk, and you are wondering if you are eating lunch or dessert. Every town swears their version is the best, and honestly, they are all right. It is like the Dominican version of "Who wore it better?" but with rice and peas. The only thing everyone agrees on is that it is delicious, and if you do not eat at least two plates, you are probably not invited back. So, if you want to make friends fast in the Dominican Republic, just show up with a pot of Moro. It is the easiest way to become family-no DNA test required!

Moro De Guandules Story

So, picture this: I whip up my version of this dish, thinking I am about to win the "best home cook" award from my friends. I invite over this one guy who is always on some new healthy kick, you know the type. He takes one bite, pauses, and then says, "Wow, this is actually good." Actually good? That is like saying, "You are surprisingly not terrible at karaoke." I mean, I was aiming for delicious, not just passing the edible test. But hey, at least he did not ask if it was gluten free.
Now, the real kicker was when my aunt, who is notorious for her quick judgments and even quicker exits, tried it. She took a fast forkful, looked at me with those eyes that say, "I have tasted every recipe in the family," and then just started laughing. Not a polite giggle, but a full-on cackle. She said, "This is great, but I was not expecting it to be so easy to eat. Usually, your food fights back." I guess that is a compliment? Or maybe she just appreciated that she did not need dental insurance after dinner.
But the moment that really stuck with me was when my neighbor, who is always in a rush and claims she only eats things that are quick to make, asked for the recipe. She said, "I need something fast, but this tastes like it took all day." I told her it was both easy and delicious, and she looked at me like I had just revealed the secret to eternal youth. That interaction made me realize that sometimes, the best reactions are the ones you never see coming, especially when you are just trying to get through dinner without burning down the kitchen.