Spicy Rice from Nando's features fragrant basmati rice infused with fiery peri-peri spices, mixed with vibrant bell peppers and herbs, resulting in a colorful and aromatic side dish that delivers a bold and zesty flavor.
Equipments
- Saucepan
- Frying pan or skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Colander or sieve (for rinsing rice)
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon peri-peri spice mix
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh coriander (cilantro)
Using basmati rice is crucial for achieving the authentic fluffy texture and fragrant aroma of Spicy Rice from Nando's. The peri-peri spice mix is the key ingredient that brings the signature fiery and zesty flavor, so sourcing a quality blend will greatly impact the dish's taste. Fresh bell peppers, both red and yellow, add vibrant color and a sweet crunch that balances the heat from the spices. For the best results, rinse the rice thoroughly with a colander before cooking to remove excess starch and prevent clumping. Your homemade Spicy Rice from Nando's copycat menu will delight with its bold, aromatic layers and colorful presentation.
Instructions
- Rinse basmati rice in a colander or sieve under cold water until water runs clear.
- Dice onion, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper on a cutting board.
- Mince the garlic.
- Heat olive oil in a frying pan or skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and sauté until softened.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Add diced red and yellow bell peppers; cook for 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in peri-peri spice mix, smoked paprika, ground cumin, ground coriander, cayenne pepper, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
- Add rinsed basmati rice and stir to coat with spices and vegetables.
- Pour in chicken or vegetable broth; season with salt and black pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat; let sit covered for 5 minutes.
- Fluff rice with a fork and stir in chopped fresh coriander (cilantro).
- Serve warm.
Substitution
Spicy Rice from Nando's copycat menu offers a vibrant and aromatic side dish with basmati rice cooked in flavorful peri-peri spices and colorful bell peppers. If you don't have peri-peri spice mix, substitute with a blend of cayenne, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and lemon zest to achieve a similar fiery kick. Using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth easily turns this recipe into a vegetarian option without losing depth of flavor. When rinsing the rice, make sure to remove excess starch to prevent clumping and achieve fluffy, separate grains. Your choice of fresh coriander as a garnish adds a refreshing contrast that complements the bold spices perfectly.
Tips
Rinsing basmati rice thoroughly until the water runs clear is crucial to prevent clumping and ensure fluffy, separate grains in your Nando's Spicy Rice. Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan with a tight-fitting lid to avoid steam escaping during simmering, allowing the rice to cook evenly and absorb all the peri-peri flavors. Avoid stirring the rice while simmering as this can cause it to become mushy; instead, let it sit covered off the heat for 5 minutes to finish cooking gently. You should always use fresh spices, especially the peri-peri blend, to maintain the dish's bold and zesty flavor profile.
Nutritions
Spicy Rice from Nando's offers a nutritious balance with basmati rice providing complex carbohydrates and essential energy. The inclusion of vibrant bell peppers boosts your meal with vitamin C, antioxidants, and dietary fiber, supporting immune function and digestion. Olive oil adds healthy monounsaturated fats, while the blend of peri-peri spices contributes anti-inflammatory properties and metabolism-boosting capsaicin. This flavorful dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also delivers key nutrients that support overall health.
Storage
Store leftover Spicy Rice in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness. Consume within 3 to 4 days for optimal flavor and safety, reheating thoroughly before serving. You can also freeze the rice in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, ensuring it is cooled completely before freezing to preserve texture and taste.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap basmati rice for jasmine rice to add a slightly sweeter aroma and softer texture to your spicy rice. Consider toasting the spices briefly in the olive oil before adding vegetables, which intensifies their flavor and aroma. Replacing chicken broth with coconut milk can introduce a creamy, rich depth that balances the peri-peri heat. For a smoky twist, finish the dish with a sprinkle of smoked sea salt instead of regular salt.
Allergies
Spicy Rice from Nando's contains common allergens such as garlic and onion, which can trigger reactions in sensitive individuals. The peri-peri spice mix may also include chili peppers that could cause discomfort or allergic responses for those prone to nightshade allergies. If you have specific food allergies, it's important to review the ingredient list carefully before enjoying this flavorful dish.
Why this recipe?
Nando's Spicy Rice menu features a bold blend of peri-peri spices infused with fragrant herbs that deliver a distinctive and flavorful experience. The dish's perfect balance of heat and zest enhances the taste buds without overwhelming them, making it appealing for spice enthusiasts. You can replicate this addictive flavor at home by experimenting with authentic peri-peri sauce and aromatic seasonings, which makes creating a copycat version both rewarding and budget-friendly. Successfully crafting this dish allows you to enjoy the restaurant's signature taste anytime, adding variety to your regular meals.