Colombian Deviled Rice is a flavorful home-style dish made with rice and deviled ham, a seasoned meat spread known for its rich and spicy flavor. It is a practical and affordable recipe commonly prepared for quick lunches and family meals.
The combination of rice, vegetables, and deviled ham creates a satisfying dish that can be served either as a main course or as a side dish alongside grilled meats.
Ingredients
- 400 g cooked white rice (2 cups)
- 250 g deviled ham or seasoned meat spread (1 cup)
- 150 g chopped white onion (1 medium onion)
- 100 g chopped red bell pepper (1 small pepper)
- 20 g crushed garlic (4 cloves)
- 30 ml vegetable oil (2 tablespoons)
- 150 g chopped ripe tomatoes (2 medium tomatoes)
- 250 ml chicken broth (1 cup)
- 5 g ground cumin (1 teaspoon)
- 3 g ground black pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
- 10 g chopped fresh cilantro (2 tablespoons)
Preparation
- Prepare the sauté base, heat the oil in a large skillet and cook the onion, bell pepper, and garlic for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Add the tomatoes, stir in the tomatoes, cumin, and pepper and cook for another 5 minutes until a thick sauce forms.
- Add the deviled ham, incorporate the deviled ham and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring well.
- Mix in the rice, add the cooked rice and stir carefully to distribute all ingredients evenly.
- Moisten the rice, pour in the chicken broth and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors.
- Finish and serve, stir in the cilantro and serve hot.
Chef’s Tips
Day-old rice provides the best texture.
Taste before adding extra salt since deviled ham is already highly seasoned.
A small extra amount of deviled ham can enhance the flavor if desired.
Traditional Variations
Some home cooks add peas and diced carrots.
Others include sweet corn or green bell peppers for additional color and texture.
How to Serve
Serve with fresh salad, fried ripe plantains, avocado, or fried eggs. It also works well as a side dish for grilled meats.
Recommended Side Dishes
- Fried ripe plantains
- Avocado
- Fresh salad
- Fried eggs
- Fried green plantains
Fun Fact
The term “deviled” refers to strongly seasoned foods. Deviled ham became popular throughout Latin America and eventually found its way into practical rice dishes like this one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, although chilled rice usually provides a firmer texture and remains fluffier during cooking.
It is a seasoned meat spread made from ham and spices, commonly used as a sandwich filling or cooking ingredient.
Absolutely. Peas, carrots, corn, and peppers are common additions.
Yes. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to two days and reheat before serving.
