Spinach Rice with Shrimp and Chorizo
This spinach rice with shrimp and chorizo is a deliciously savory dish that is both hearty and vibrant. Combining the succulent flavors of shrimp with the smoky essence of chorizo, this recipe brings a delightful contrast of tastes that will transport your taste buds to new heights. With a colorful array of bell peppers, mushrooms, and tomatoes, every bite feels like a warm embrace of comfort. The aroma that fills the kitchen during preparation is as pleasing as the dish itself, promising a memorable dining experience. Easy to prepare, it’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. It’s a one-pan wonder, making clean-up a breeze. This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or some crusty bread. Whether served for family or friends, it’s sure to be a hit. And, with a few simple substitutions, it can easily fit into various dietary needs.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 red and 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 50 g chorizo, sliced (or salami)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 250 g basmati rice
- 400 g chopped tomatoes
- 200 g cooked, peeled shrimp
- 100 g mushrooms, sliced
- 500 ml water
Spices
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time
Total time: 30 minutes (including prep and cooking)
Step-by-Step Instruction
- Prepare all the ingredients by slicing the onion, bell peppers, chorizo, and mushrooms, and mincing the garlic. Boil water in a kettle.
- In a pan suitable for high-temperature cooking, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add onion, bell peppers, chorizo, and garlic to the pan, stirring occasionally. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes or until the ingredients start to soften.
- Lower the heat slightly and add the mushrooms. Continue to cook for another 4-5 minutes until mushrooms are tender.
- Stir in the basmati rice, ensuring the grains are well coated with the oil and vegetable mixture.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and pour in 500 ml of hot water from the kettle.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then cover the pan with a lid.
- Allow the mixture to cook over high heat for 12 minutes, maintaining a simmer.
- After removing the lid, check the rice. It should be almost cooked through.
- Gently fold in the shrimp. If needed, add a bit more hot water and continue cooking for an additional 1-3 minutes until the shrimp are warmed through.
- Remove from heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes to absorb all the flavors.
- Stir once more before serving to distribute the shrimp and seasonings evenly.
- Serve warm and enjoy the delicious harmony of flavors!
Tips
- For added heat, include a pinch of chili flakes when cooking the vegetables.
- If you prefer, substitute brown rice for basmati for a nuttier flavor and additional fiber.
- Canned tomatoes can be used if fresh ones are unavailable; ensure they are thoroughly drained.
Variations
- For a vegetarian option, omit shrimp and chorizo and substitute with diced tofu or chickpeas.
- If you’re watching sodium, reduce the amount of salt or use low-sodium stock instead of water.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh green salad lightly dressed with olive oil and lemon.
- Serve with crusty bread for soaking up any remaining juices.
- A chilled glass of white wine complements this dish well.
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