Caribbean Style Vegetable Rice

Craving a taste of the sunny Caribbean right in your own kitchen? Look no further than this flavorful and vibrant recipe for Caribbean Style Vegetable Rice. Packed with a medley of colorful veggies and fragrant spices, this dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight that will bring a touch of tropical paradise to your dining table. Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

Caribbean Style Vegetable Rice

Ingredients:
– 1 cup long-grain white rice
– 1 ¾ cups vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, diced (use a mix of colors for an extra pop)
– 1 small zucchini, diced
– 1 cup chopped fresh pineapple
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

2. Add the diced bell pepper and zucchini to the saucepan, and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are slightly tender.

3. Stir in the rice, cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring to coat the rice and vegetables with the spices.

4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let the rice simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is fluffy.

5. Once the rice is cooked, gently fold in the chopped pineapple, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the dish.

6. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

7. Serve the Caribbean Style Vegetable Rice hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of freshness and color.

This vibrant and aromatic Caribbean Style Vegetable Rice is a delightful dish that brings together the essence of the tropics in each delicious spoonful. The combination of colorful vegetables, fragrant spices, and sweet pineapple creates a symphony of flavors that will transport you to a sunny island getaway with every bite. Whether enjoyed on its own or as a side dish to your favorite Caribbean-inspired entrees, this recipe is sure to brighten up your mealtime and take your taste buds on a culinary adventure.