Delight your taste buds with this simple and flavorful recipe for Low Sodium Arroz Branco Cozido, a classic Brazilian white rice dish that’s perfect for anyone seeking a heart-healthy twist. Made with fragrant long-grain white rice, infused with a subtle hint of garlic and bay leaf, and cooked with olive oil for a satisfying richness, this dish is quick to prepare and achieves a perfectly fluffy texture every time. Designed as a low-sodium option, it focuses on natural aromatics to enhance the flavors without the need for added salt. Ready in just 25 minutes, this versatile dish can be served as a wholesome side or as a neutral base to complement bold, vibrant entrees. Whether you’re cooking for weekday meals or special gatherings, this easy arroz branco recipe will become a staple in your repertoire!
Rinse the rice under cold water. This removes the excess starch and ensures the rice doesn't become too sticky.
In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the whole garlic clove to the oil and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. This will infuse the oil with a subtle garlic flavor.
Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes, allowing each grain to be coated with the oil.
Pour in the water and add the bay leaf. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. Avoid removing the lid during cooking as it can release steam necessary for even cooking.
After 15 minutes, check if all the water has been absorbed and the rice is tender. If not, cover and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for another 5 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to finish steaming and results in a fluffier texture.
Remove the bay leaf and garlic clove before fluffing the rice with a fork.
Serve the arroz branco warm as a side dish or base for your favorite dishes.
Calories |
392 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 14.6 g | 19% | |
| Saturated Fat | 2.3 g | 12% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 17 mg | 1% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 57.8 g | 21% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.1 g | 4% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.1 g | ||
| Protein | 5.6 g | 11% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 57 mg | 4% | |
| Iron | 2.7 mg | 15% | |
| Potassium | 88 mg | 2% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.