Puerto Rican Salmorejo (Tomatoes with Rice)

Authentic Puerto Rican Salmorejo Recipe: A Taste of Island Cuisine

Introduction:

Embracing the vibrant culinary traditions of Puerto Rico, the Salmorejo de Jueyes, or simply Salmorejo, stands out as a delightful blend of flavors rooted in the island’s rich history and diverse cultural influences. This traditional dish, featuring tomatoes and rice as its main ingredients, offers a savory and comforting experience that reflects the warmth and hospitality of Puerto Rican cuisine.

Ingredients: To prepare this authentic Puerto Rican Salmorejo, you will need the following

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 cup of tomato sauce
• 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup of long-grain white rice
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 1 teaspoon of cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 pound of cooked crab meat (optional)
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Stir in minced garlic and diced tomatoes, cooking until the tomatoes begin to break down and release their juices.
3. Pour in tomato sauce and chicken or vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.
4. Add long-grain white rice to the pot, along with paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
5. Lower the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let the Salmorejo cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. If desired, gently fold in cooked crab meat to add a seafood twist to your Salmorejo.
7. Once the rice is fully cooked and the flavors have melded together, remove the pot from the heat.
8. Serve the Puerto Rican Salmorejo hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Conclusion: Indulge in the irresistible allure of Puerto Rican cuisine with this authentic Salmorejo recipe. Embrace the culinary legacy of Puerto Rico and savor every spoonful of this delectable dish. ¡Buen provecho!