Arroz con Mariscos or "Rice with Seafood" is a beloved Peruvian dish, celebrated for its vibrant colours and deep, satisfying flavours. Combining a variety of seafood, including shrimp, squid, and mussels, this coastal favourite is a hearty, flavourful dish that’s loved throughout Peru.
In this post, we'll explore the history of this iconic dish and guide you through preparing Peruvian-style Arroz con Mariscos in your own kitchen.
What is Peruvian Arroz con Mariscos?
Arroz con Mariscos takes inspiration from the Spanish dish paella, introduced by Spanish immigrants in Peru during the 16th century. Over time, this rice-based dish transformed with the addition of Peruvian ingredients such as ají panca and ají amarillo chili peppers, as well as a variety of local vegetables and herbs.
While ceviche is recognised as Peru’s national dish, Arroz con Mariscos remains an immensely popular option, showcasing Peru’s rich coastal resources. Frequently served in Cevicherías and homes across the country, it’s traditionally accompanied by sarza criolla—a bright, zesty onion relish. The result is an irresistibly flavourful and colourful dish beloved by Peruvians.
How to make Arroz con Mariscos
To prepare this flavourful Peruvian seafood dish, follow the steps below:
Prepare the Sauce: In a large pot, sauté the onions, garlic, and red bell pepper until softened. Add the ají amarillo and ají panca pastes, stirring until well combined.
Add the Rice: Stir the rice into the pot, coating it in the spice mixture. Pour in the white wine and let it simmer until mostly absorbed.
Add the Stock and Seasonings: Add the seafood stock, peas, carrots, salt, pepper, and cumin. Stir well and cover, allowing the rice to cook on low heat until nearly done.
Add the Seafood: Once the rice is almost cooked, add the shrimp, squid, and mussels (or any other seafood you prefer). Let it simmer gently until the seafood is cooked and the rice has absorbed all the flavours.
Garnish and Serve: Serve with sarza criolla, a Peruvian onion relish made with red onion, lime, chili pepper, and cilantro for a fresh, tangy finish.
Peruvian Rice with Seafood Recipe
If you prefer a visual guide for your recipes, then watch the video below on how to prepare your own delicious Arroz con Mariscos.
Peruvian Arroz con Mariscos Ingredients
350 gr of mixed seafood
1 tablespoon of butter
1 tablespoon of garlic paste
1 onion
500 gr of cooked white rice
4 tablespoons of aji panca
4 tablespoons of aji amarillo
1/2 large red bell pepper
1/2 cup of peas
1/2 cup of corn
1/2 cup of carrots
1 cup of fish stock (Approximately 230ml)
40 gr of parmesan cheese (optional)
A dish of evaporated milk / double cream
Chopped coriander to taste
Comentarios