Welcome to the second installment of our series on quick and easy weeknight meals. Our goal remains to reduce stress and simplify your evenings with delicious, hassle-free recipes. This Shrimp and Poblano Rice dish continues that mission, combining bold flavors with minimal preparation. It’s a perfect blend of shrimp, salsa verde, and hearty rice, making it an ideal choice for busy nights when you need a nutritious and flavorful meal without stress.
Shrimp & Rice Ingredients:
- 3 Tbsp. Neutral Oil
- 1 Small Onion (Small Diced)
- 1 Poblano Pepper (Small Diced)
- 3 Garlic Cloves (Finely Minced)
- 1 Cup Rice
- 2 Cups Chicken Stock
- 1 lb. Shrimp (Peeled & Deveined)
- 2 Tsp. Salt (Divided)
- 2 Tsp. Cumin (Divided)
- ½ Cup White Wine
- 6 Tbsp. Butter
- ½ Cup Salsa Verde
- ¼ Tsp. Black Pepper
- Cilantro to Serve
- Lime to Serve
Shrimp and Rice Method:
1. Using a large container and a fine sieve, rinse the rice several times until the water runs clear.
2. In a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add 2 tablespoons of neutral oil and heat until just below the smoking point.
3. Add the onion and poblano pepper and sauté until the onions become translucent.
4. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
5. Add the rice and toast for 45 seconds to a minute.
6. Add the chicken stock, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of cumin. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cover. Simmer for 10 minutes or until the rice is almost cooked.
7. Remove from heat and allow to sit for 5 minutes to continue to steam and cook.
8. In a separate pan, add the remaining oil and heat.
9. Add the shrimp and cook for 45 seconds. Add 1 teaspoon of salt, white wine, and salsa verde, and simmer for 1 minute.
10. Remove the shrimp and bring the sauce in the pan to a boil. Turn off the heat and add the butter, 1 tablespoon at a time, until all the butter is melted.
11. Top the rice with the shrimp and cilantro. Serve with sauce and lime wedges either on the side or with the sauce and lime juice on top.
Importance of Reading the Recipe
Before starting any recipe, it’s crucial to read through the entire set of instructions. Understanding all the steps ahead of time allows you to execute several tasks simultaneously, such as sautéing shrimp while the rice cooks. This not only saves time but also ensures a smoother cooking process, minimizing the chances of mistakes and maximizing efficiency in the kitchen.
Cooking Shrimp to Perfection
The size of your shrimp can significantly affect the cooking time. Larger shrimp will need a bit more time, while smaller shrimp will cook faster. It’s important to cook the shrimp to an internal temperature of 145°F to ensure they are safe to eat while still retaining their juicy texture. Overcooking can make shrimp rubbery, so keep a close eye on them.
The Magic of Toasting Rice
Toasting rice before cooking is a simple step that can make a big difference in flavor. When you toast rice, it undergoes a Maillard reaction, which enhances its nuttiness and adds depth to the dish. This step, although brief, elevates the overall taste profile, making the rice more robust and aromatic.
Shrimp and Rice Recipe Summary
This Shrimp and Poblano Rice dish is a testament to how a little preparation and understanding of cooking techniques can transform a simple weeknight meal into something special. By taking the time to read through the recipe, ensuring the shrimp is cooked perfectly, and toasting the rice, you create a dish that’s rich in flavor and satisfying. Perfect for busy nights, this recipe brings a touch of culinary magic to your table without demanding hours of your time. Enjoy the harmonious blend of shrimp, salsa verde, and toasted rice, knowing that a delicious dinner doesn’t have to be complicated.
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