Arroz Con Gandules (Puerto Rican Rice with Pigeon Peas)

Name: Arroz Con Gandules (Puerto Rican Rice with Pigeon Peas)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Ingredients: 2 cups long-grain rice; 3 cups chicken broth; 1 can (15 oz) pigeon peas, rinsed and drained; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: February 14, 2026

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare – With a straightforward cooking process, this dish can be on your table in no time.
Flavorful – The blend of spices and pigeon peas creates a savory taste that will impress your family and friends.
Versatile – Pair it with chicken, beef, or turkey for a hearty meal or serve as a side to any Latin dinner.
Nutritious – Packed with protein from the pigeon peas, this recipe offers both taste and nutrition.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a festive gathering or a weeknight dinner, Arroz Con Gandules fits the bill.

Tools and Preparation

To create delicious Arroz Con Gandules, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. These tools will help streamline the cooking process and ensure you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot or Dutch oven – Ideal for cooking rice evenly while allowing all ingredients to meld together beautifully.
Wooden spoon – Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring all flavors combine effortlessly.
Measuring cups – Accurate measurements are crucial for perfect rice texture and flavor balance.
Measuring spoons – Needed for precise spice measurements to enhance the overall taste of the dish.

Ingredients

For the Rice

2 cups long-grain rice
3 cups chicken broth
1 can (15 oz) pigeon peas, rinsed and drained
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Seasoning

1 onion, finely chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnish

Fresh cilantro, chopped

How to Make Arroz Con Gandules (Puerto Rican Rice with Pigeon Peas)

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
1. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper.
2. Cook until they are soft, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Spices

Once your vegetables are ready:
1. Sprinkle in the ground cumin and dried oregano.
2. Mix well to coat the vegetables in spices.

Step 3: Combine Rice and Broth

Now it’s time to add more ingredients:
1. Pour in the rice and stir for about 2 minutes to toast it lightly.
2. Add the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil.

Step 4: Cook with Pigeon Peas

After boiling:
1. Reduce heat to low and stir in the pigeon peas.
2. Cover the pot tightly and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked through.

Step 5: Fluff and Serve

Finally:
1. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes.
2. Fluff rice with a fork before serving; garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Enjoy your flavorful Arroz Con Gandules as a main dish or side!

How to Serve Arroz Con Gandules (Puerto Rican Rice with Pigeon Peas)

Arroz Con Gandules is a flavorful dish that pairs well with various sides. When serving this Puerto Rican classic, consider adding complementary flavors and textures to enhance the meal experience.

With Grilled Chicken

Juicy grilled chicken adds a smoky flavor that balances the rice’s earthy notes.

With Avocado Salad

A fresh avocado salad brings creaminess and vibrant color to your plate, making it a refreshing addition.

Topped with Salsa Verde

Drizzling salsa verde over Arroz Con Gandules provides a zesty kick that elevates the dish’s overall taste.

Accompanied by Fried Plantains

Sweet, crispy fried plantains contrast beautifully with the savory rice and pigeon peas, creating a delightful combination.

With Stewed Vegetables

A side of stewed vegetables offers an extra layer of nutrition and flavor, making your meal more balanced.

How to Perfect Arroz Con Gandules (Puerto Rican Rice with Pigeon Peas)

Perfecting Arroz Con Gandules involves attention to detail in both ingredients and cooking methods. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices enhance the flavors significantly compared to dried alternatives.
Soak the pigeon peas: Soaking them overnight can improve texture and reduce cooking time for better results.
Pay attention to water ratios: Achieving the right balance between rice and liquid ensures fluffy, well-cooked grains.
Let it rest: Allowing the rice to sit after cooking helps flavors meld together and improves overall taste.

Best Side Dishes for Arroz Con Gandules (Puerto Rican Rice with Pigeon Peas)

Pairing side dishes with Arroz Con Gandules can create a satisfying meal. Consider these delicious options that complement your main dish.

Mofongo: Mashed plantains mixed with garlic and olive oil create a hearty side that pairs perfectly with rice.
Tostones: Twice-fried green plantains offer a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with soft rice.
Black Beans: Seasoned black beans provide protein and richness, enhancing the dish’s overall appeal.
Corn Salad: A bright corn salad with tomatoes and onions adds freshness and sweetness to balance out the savory rice.
Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers crunch and color, making it a nutritious side option.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Seasoned shrimp skewers provide a seafood twist that elevates your dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking too much liquid can lead to soggy rice. Make sure to measure your broth accurately for perfect texture.
Skipping soaking the gandules may result in uneven cooking. Always soak them for a few hours before use for better results.
Ignoring seasoning adjustments means missing out on flavor. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings to your preference.
Not using a heavy-bottomed pot can cause uneven heat distribution. Use a pot that retains heat well to avoid burnt rice.
Stirring too frequently can break the rice grains. Stir gently and only when necessary to maintain the integrity of your dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for freshness.
Consume within 3-5 days for best quality.

Freezing Arroz Con Gandules (Puerto Rican Rice with Pigeon Peas)

Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.
Can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Arroz Con Gandules (Puerto Rican Rice with Pigeon Peas)

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat until warm, about 20 minutes.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Add a splash of broth and heat over medium-low until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Arroz Con Gandules (Puerto Rican Rice with Pigeon Peas)?
Arroz Con Gandules is a traditional Puerto Rican dish made with rice and pigeon peas, often flavored with sofrito and spices.

Can I customize my Arroz Con Gandules recipe?
Yes! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots, or change the protein from beef to chicken or turkey.

Is Arroz Con Gandules suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well in the fridge and freezer, making it perfect for meal prepping.

How can I make Arroz Con Gandules vegetarian?
Simply omit any meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

Arroz Con Gandules (Puerto Rican Rice with Pigeon Peas) is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different proteins or vegetables based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a taste of Puerto Rico at your table!