Arroz con Gandules: Puerto Rican Rice Perfection! -…

Ingredients

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped (approx. 1 cup)
• 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped (approx. 1 cup)
• 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped (approx. 1 cup)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 2 ajíes dulces (sweet chili peppers), seeded and finely chopped (optional, or substitute with a pinch of paprika for color)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (30ml)
• 2 tablespoons achiote oil (annatto oil) (30ml) - or vegetable oil for a lighter flavour
• 4 ounces diced smoked ham or bacon (approx. 115g)
• 1 (15-ounce) can pigeon peas (gandules), drained and rinsed (approx. 425g)
• 2 cups long-grain rice, rinsed (approx. 400g)
• 3 1/2 cups chicken broth (approx. 830ml)
• 1 packet Sazón with achiote (approx. 1.41 oz, 40g)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional garnish: chopped cilantro, pimientos