CiberCuba Cocina
Moros y Cristianos Rice | Photo © CiberCuba Cocina

Moors and Christians

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Kitchen, Additional dish

Waters
Spices
Vegetables
Rice
Preparation Time:
90
Note:
Moros y cristianos is a typical rice dish from Cuba. The name of this dish is widely debated, as it is often referred to as Congrí, which, according to experts in Cuban cuisine, is a mistake since that term actually refers to the recipe made with red beans. On the other hand, the name "moros y cristianos" evokes a historical and cultural theme. "Moros" is how the Spaniards referred to the inhabitants of Arab towns. The Arabs dominated the territory now known as Spain for over seven centuries, during which they introduced many cultural elements and foods, including rice, a grain that transformed Spanish cuisine and became one of the dishes that identify it worldwide. Despite centuries of rule, the native population of the peninsula, mostly of Christian faith, lived in continuous conflict with the Arabs. After many battles, the Christians succeeded in expelling the Moors and reclaiming their territory. Thus, the dish "Moros y Cristianos," also known as "arroz moro," is a jewel of Cuban cuisine whose name alludes to the period of Arab dominance in Spain.
Ingredients:
  • 2 cups of long-grain white rice
  • 1 cup of black beans
  • 2 cups of black bean broth
  • 1 large white onion
  • 4 large cloves of garlic
  • 1 green bell pepper
  • 1 pinch of ground oregano
  • 1 large bay leaf
  • 1/4 cup of vegetable oil, preferably sunflower oil
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
Instructions:

Rinse the black beans, which have been previously sorted, and place them in a pressure cooker with plenty of water. Bring it to high heat until the pot builds pressure, then reduce to medium heat and cook for 30 to 40 minutes. The beans should be tender but not split open. Remove the broth and set it aside. Allow the soft beans to cool.

Raw white rice with sautéed vegetables / CiberCuba Kitchen

In a pot, add the finely chopped onion and garlic, the bell peppers cut into very thin strips, the oregano, and the oil. Sauté everything gently until the onion turns golden. Then, add the rice and mix it with the sautéed ingredients. Next, incorporate the beans, bay leaf, and bean broth. Adjust the salt to your liking and cover the pot.

Freshly opened pressure cooker with Moros y Cristianos rice / CiberCuba Cocina

Bring to medium heat until the pot reaches pressure. Lower the heat and let it cook for 10 minutes. Uncover the pot and check that the rice is dry. Stir it to fluff it up and prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Allow it to rest, lightly covered.

Remove the Moro Rice so that it can be separated. / CiberCuba Cocina

This basic recipe for moro rice can be made in a regular pot, though the cooking times will double. Additionally, it can be enhanced by adding fried pork, empellitas, or chicharrones. These ingredients give the rice a very special flavor and add different textures to the dish. However, it is ultimately up to the cook's preference.

Moros y Cristianos rice with olive oil, pork cracklings, and chives / CiberCuba Cocina

Enjoy this recipe. Bon appétit!

Rations:
6
Waters
Spices
Vegetables
Rice