If you’re looking for a delicious and exciting dish to impress your family and friends, look no further than Arroz Negro con Sepia. This traditional Spanish dish is also known as Black Rice with Cuttlefish. The rich black color comes from ink extracted from cuttlefish, making it not just tasty but visually striking as well! This dish is a popular choice in Spanish coastal regions and has deep cultural roots that connect to the Mediterranean lifestyle, where seafood is a key ingredient in many recipes.
What makes Arroz Negro so appealing is its incredible flavors and the fun experience of cooking it! Whether you’re looking for a new family dinner or an exciting dish for a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Cuttlefish (cleaned and sliced) | 300 grams |
| Short grain rice (such as Bomba) | 250 grams |
| Fish or seafood broth | 750 ml |
| Olive oil | 3 tablespoons |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 medium |
| Red bell pepper (chopped) | 1 |
| Tomato (peeled and chopped) | 1 |
| Black cuttlefish ink | 2 sachets (about 8 grams) |
| Parsley (chopped, for garnish) | To taste |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they are soft.
- Add Cuttlefish: Stir in the sliced cuttlefish and cook for another 3 minutes until it starts to turn opaque.
- Mix in Tomato and Rice: Add the chopped tomato and rice to the pan. Mix everything together for about 2 minutes to coat the rice with flavors.
- Incorporate Broth and Ink: Pour in the broth and add the black cuttlefish ink. Stir well, making sure the ink is evenly distributed.
- Cook the Rice: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Let it Rest: Remove from heat and let it sit covered for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors to meld.
- Garnish and Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve it hot!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
| Calories | 350 | 17% |
| Protein | 20 grams | 40% |
| Carbohydrates | 50 grams | 17% |
| Fats | 10 grams | 15% |
| Sodium | 600 mg | 26% |
| Fiber | 3 grams | 12% |
Tips and Tricks
- Choose the Right Rice: Short grain rice absorbs more flavor and is ideal for this dish.
- Adjust the Broth: Feel free to use vegetable broth or chicken broth if seafood is not available.
- Watch the Cooking Time: Make sure not to overcook the rice, as it can become mushy.
- Mix it Up: You can add other seafood like shrimp or mussels for extra flavor!
- Common Mistake: Avoid stirring the rice too much during cooking to keep it from becoming sticky.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cuttlefish?
Yes, frozen cuttlefish works well! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
What if I can’t find cuttlefish ink?
If you can’t find cuttlefish ink, consider using squid ink as a substitute for a similar flavor and color.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the cuttlefish with mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of seafood broth.
How spicy is Arroz Negro con Sepia?
This dish is not typically spicy but adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give it a nice kick if you like spice!
What can I serve with this dish?
Pair it with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth for best results.
Can I use other types of seafood?
Yes! You can mix different seafood like shrimp, clams, or even fish to customize your dish.
Is Arroz Negro gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth and rice, this dish is suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
What type of wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp white wine like Albariño or a light red can complement the flavors of Arroz Negro beautifully.
Can I freeze this dish?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it if needed. Just make sure to store in a freezer-safe container.
Now that you’ve got everything you need to make Arroz Negro con Sepia, gather your ingredients and enjoy a taste of Spain right from your kitchen! Happy cooking!
