AZTEK PLOV - Fusion Russian & Mexican Recipe of Chicken and Rice

chicken

🥗Healthier: turkey

💰Cheaper: pork

Turkey is leaner, while pork is often less expensive.

chickpeas

🥗Healthier: lentils

💰Cheaper: beans

Lentils offer similar protein and fiber, while beans are often cheaper.

vegetable oil

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: sunflower oil

Olive oil is healthier, while sunflower oil is typically less expensive.

paprika

🥗Healthier: smoked paprika

💰Cheaper: cayenne pepper

Smoked paprika adds flavor without extra calories, while cayenne is often cheaper.

Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear.

Soak rice in water for 30 minutes, then drain.

Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Add diced chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 7-10 minutes.

Mix in grated carrots, chopped bell peppers, and sauté for 5 minutes.

Add drained rice to the pot and stir to combine with other ingredients.

Pour in enough water to cover the rice by 1 inch, then add cumin, paprika, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pot.

Cook for 20-25 minutes until rice is tender and water is absorbed.

Remove from heat and let sit covered for 10 minutes to steam.

Fluff rice with a fork and stir in chopped parsley before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: