Let’s start this new food journey and explore the bright and tasty world of chimichurri sauce. We’re just seconds away from the amazing blend of chimichurri chicken and rice that will blow your mind away and teleport you to the core of the South American cuisine. Join us as we explore the essence of chimichurri, some of its many uses and how to make it yourself using this simple recipe from Kitchen Intent.
What is Chimichurri and Where Does It Come From?
The roots of chimichurri lie in the dramatic mountain landscape of Uruguay and Argentina, a masterpiece of sauces that is mostly served alongside grilled meats. Parsley, garlic, vinegar, olive oil, and red pepper flakes merge in a harmony to create a delightful fusion of fresh and zesty flavors. It is the simplicity and the depth that characterizes the South American food culturally and the sauce is more than just a condiment.
Chimichurri Sauce – Magical South American Sauce
The main ingredient in our dish, which is Chimichurri sauce, is a marvel by itself. The vivid green color and zesty taste of chili pepper compliments a wide range of dishes both within and outside of South American cuisine. Whether you grill your meats and drizzle it over or use it as a marinade or as a colorful accompaniment to your side dishes, the Chimichurri sauce is a testament to the power of simple ingredients that blend to perfection.
Difference Between Peruvian, Puerto Rican, and Costa Rican Chimichurri
While the classic Chimichurri comes from Argentina and Uruguay, variations of this sauce can be found all over Latin America, each adding a local touch to it. Peruvian Chimichurri tends to have cilantro and mint for a signature taste. On the other hand, Puerto Rican versions may be milder in nature, using native herbs and less vinegar. Costa Rican Chimichurri, which is more like a relish, is commonly used to top street foods. Each variation presents a fragment of the multifaceted gastronomy of these countries which leads you to discover the diverse richness of Latino flavors.
Chimichurri Sauce Recipe
Making the Chimichurri sauce yourself is really easy and you can adjust it to your individual preferences. Here’s a quick and easy recipe to get you started:
– 1 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, tightly packed
– 3-4 garlic cloves
– 2 tablespoons fresh oregano leaves (or 2 teaspoons dried oregano)
– 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Put parsley, garlic, and oregano in a food processor and pulse until finely chopped. Place in a bowl, add olive oil, vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper and mix well. Let it rest for at least 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
What is Chimichurri Rice and How to Make it?
Why just use chimichurri as a sauce? When rice and chimichurri are brought together, the boring carbohydrate becomes a side dish that lives up to its pompous title. Through the combination of delicious sauce and perfectly cooked rice, chimichurri rice is transformed into a dish with a distinctive twist that is lively in color, texture, and taste. The best part about it is that it is simple, yet effective, technique to take your dinner from “average” to “beyond average”.
An Overview of Trader Joe’s Chimichurri Rice
For the people looking for a quick and convenient way to enjoy this delicious dish, Trader Joe’s offers a Chimichurri rice that one can heat and serve. This product is an ideal choice for busy weeknights as it captures the true essence of Chimichurri and is easy to prepare from frozen. Nothing can beat homemade, but Trader Joe’s Chimichurri rice is an ode to the versatility and popularity of this legendary sauce.
Chimichurri Rice Recipe
Now, let’s bring Chimichurri into our rice:
– 1 cup basmati or jasmine rice, rinsed and drained
– 1 3/4 cups water or chicken broth
– Salt to taste
– 1/2 cup Chimichurri sauce (recipe above)
Cook rice as per instruction on the package, with water or chicken broth to give flavor. After you have cooked it, fluff it with a fork and stir in the Chimichurri sauce.
Chimichurri Chicken and Rice Bowl Recipe
Finally, the star of our show, the Chimichurri Chicken Rice Bowl:
– 1 pound chicken breasts or thighs, sliced into strips
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cups Chimichurri rice (recipe above)
– Additional Chimichurri sauce for drizzling
– Optional toppings: sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, lime wedges
Season the chicken with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil and cook the chicken until golden and done. Assemble your bowls with a base of Chimichurri rice, add cooked chicken, and top with your favorite toppings. Drizzle with more Chimichurri sauce to finish the dish.
In conclusion, I would like to invite you to take a trip into this rich culinary world and be amazed by the exciting flavors of Chimichurri Chicken and Rice. It’s not only delicious but also a real reflection of the rich cuisines from all over South America. Enjoy!
FAQs
A. As chimichurri sauce doesn’t require cooking, it is usually served in room temperature, neither cold nor warm. However, you should serve chimichurri rice hot.
A. Of course, you can easily purchase Trader Joe’s Chimichurri Sauce from your nearest store.
A. Chimichurri rice is not a spicy dish. But you can always make it spicy by adding chili pepper or paprika.
A. Yes, you can always choose to refrigerate or freeze your chimichurri rice and sauce.