Ingrid Hoffman's Coca-Cola Rice

Lorraine of AZ's Note:

This is a super-easy recipe, from the former Food Network host, for a savory rice dish. In spite of the cola it is not a sweet rice. This rice, says Hoffman, is a classic recipe in Columbia where she is from. The rice pairs well with pork loin or chicken or spicy whole fish. She gives an important hint for success: During cooking, when the liquid has almost completely evaporated there will be tunnels in the rice. That is the time to add the raisins and almonds. But, says Hoffman, resist the urge to stir them in. This is a mistake. Simply add them to the top of the rice, cover and finish cooking. Reicpe was posted on the Coca-Cola website.

• Total Time: 35 mins
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 25 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 4

• 1 1/2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cups long-grain rice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 1/2 cups Coca-Cola
• 1/4 cup raisins
• 3 tablespoons almonds, sliced or 3 tablespoons almonds, slivered and lightly toasted

Directions:

1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat for 1 minute. Add the rice and cook until it is opaque, about 2 minutes, stirring often.
2. In a separate bowl, add the salt to the cola. Stir until dissolved. The cola will fizz up releasing some of the carbonation. Then add the cola to the rice.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, cooking until the liquid has almost completely evaporated, about 15 minutes.
4. Add the raisins and almonds over the top of the rice and reduce the heat to the lowest setting. Cover and cook until the rice is tender, about 10 more minutes. Uncover, fluff with a fork and serve.

Reviews

[chevy1976]

The recommended liquid content (3.5 cups of Coke) is way less than that needed to hydrate 2 cups of rice! I needed 6 cups of coke. Good thing I bought the 2 liter bottle. Also the bland taste of this rice dish was a great disappointment for me.