A vibrant and flavorful rice dish inspired by Brazilian cuisine, perfect for any occasion.
Rinse the rice in a large bowl with cold water until the water runs clear, draining it through a strainer each time.
Rinsing removes excess starch, ensuring the rice cooks up fluffy and not sticky.
In a large pot, combine the rice, water, salt, and butter. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook until the rice is tender, about 18 minutes.
Check the rice halfway through cooking to ensure it doesn't dry out; add a splash of water if needed.
Heat olive oil in a sauté pan over medium heat. Add the bacon and cook until crispy, then remove and set aside.
Cooking the bacon first allows its fat to render, adding flavor to the dish.
In the same pan, sauté the onion, garlic, bell peppers, and corn until softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir frequently to prevent the vegetables from sticking or burning.
Stir in the raisins and cooked bacon, then add the cooked rice and mix well. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to combine flavors.
Mix gently to avoid breaking the rice grains.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Adding parsley at the end preserves its fresh flavor and vibrant color.