Filipino Arroz Caldo

Arroz Caldo

Let's explore how to make Arroz Caldo, a comforting Filipino rice porridge that's particularly popular during cooler weather or when someone needs a soothing meal. This dish is often flavored with chicken, ginger, and garlic, making it both hearty and healing.

• Ingredients:
• 1 kg chicken, cut into pieces (thighs and drumsticks are ideal)
• 1 1/2 cups uncooked jasmine rice
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons ginger, julienned
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 3 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and halved
• 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
• Fried garlic bits, for garnish
• Peanut bits, for garnish (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon or calamansi wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
• Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. 
• Add the chicken pieces and cook until they start to brown slightly. 
• Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
• In the same pot, add a bit more oil if needed. 
• Sauté the onions, garlic, and ginger until the onions are translucent and the mixture is fragrant.
3. Cook the Rice:
• Add the uncooked rice to the pot and stir well to coat it in the oil and aromatics. 
• Sauté for a couple of minutes until the rice becomes slightly toasted.
4. Simmer with Broth:
• Return the chicken to the pot. 
• Pour in the chicken broth and add the fish sauce. 
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. 
• Cover and let it cook, stirring occasionally, until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid, turning into a thick porridge (about 30-40 minutes).
5. Season and Garnish:
• Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. 
• Serve the arroz caldo in bowls, topped with halved hard-boiled eggs, chopped green onions, fried garlic bits, and peanuts (optional).
6. Serve with Citrus:
• Offer lemon or calamansi wedges on the side for squeezing over the porridge, adding a refreshing zest.

Arroz Caldo is not just a meal; it's a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for lifting spirits and providing comfort. Its creamy consistency and robust flavors make it a beloved dish across the Philippines, often enjoyed as a breakfast or a light dinner. Enjoy your cooking and the comforting flavors of this Filipino favorite!

Tip #1: Elevate your dish by adding a splash of fish sauce mixed with lemon or calamansi for an extra burst of flavor. Find fish sauce at your local Asian market or easily order it online. Feel free to adjust the amount to match your taste preferences.

Purchase calamansi juice here.

Tip #2: If you're reheating this dish the next day, you might find the rice has clumped together and the consistency is less soupy. For the best results, warm it on the stove and stir in a little water to restore its original, more fluid texture.