Chiriquí Blend
History and Background
The Chiriquí Blend is a flavorful dish originating from the Chiriquí region in Panama. Known for its rich, diverse agriculture, Chiriquí offers a variety of ingredients that blend together to create a dish that is both savory and satisfying. This recipe combines traditional Panamanian flavors with a modern twist, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal.
Ingredients
Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the Rice
Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch. This helps prevent clumping. In a medium pot, bring two cups of water to a boil and add one cup of washed rice.
Step 2: Cooking the Chicken
While the rice is cooking, season the chicken with salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika. Heat a pan over medium heat and add the chicken. Cook until golden brown on both sides and fully cooked through.
Step 3: Preparing the Black Beans
In a separate pot, add the black beans with a pinch of salt. Cook until they are tender and ready to eat.
Step 4: Sauteing the Bell Peppers and Onion
Chop the bell peppers and onion into fine pieces. In a hot pan, add a little oil and saute the onion and bell peppers until they are soft and fragrant.
Cooking Process
Step 1: Combining Ingredients
Once all the individual components are cooked, combine the rice, chicken, black beans, bell peppers, and onion in a large serving dish.
Step 2: Adding Final Touches
Mix in chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for freshness. Make sure everything is mixed well to ensure even distribution of flavors.
Step 3: Final Cooking Time
Let everything cook together on low heat for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This short cooking time helps combine all the elements of the dish.
How to Enjoy the Chiriquí Blend
The Chiriquí Blend is best enjoyed with a refreshing lime soda or iced tea. It can be a hearty main course for lunch or dinner. To further enhance your meal, pair it with a simple green salad or warm tortilla chips on the side.