Duck with Rice (Arroz con Pato)

Arroz con Pato, or duck with rice, is a traditional Peruvian dish that combines tender, juicy duck with flavorful rice. This hearty, aromatic dish is perfect for those who love South American cuisine and is sure to impress any dinner guests.

Ingredients:

• 4 duck legs or whole duck cut in pieces
• 2 cups of long-grain white rice
• 1 red onion, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 bell peppers, diced
• 1 tablespoon of cumin
• 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon of dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon of ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup of good medium to dark beer
• 2 cups of chicken broth
• 1/2 cup of frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Begin by seasoning the duck legs generously with salt and pepper. Heat the vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the duck legs and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the duck from the pot and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the diced onion and bell peppers. Cook until the vegetables are soft and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and ground black pepper to the pot. Stir the spices and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4. Add the rice to the pot and stir to combine with the vegetables and spices. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is lightly toasted.
5. Pour in the beer and chicken broth, and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid.
6. Add the duck legs back into the pot, making sure to nestle them into the rice mixture. Cook the rice and duck for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the duck is tender and falling off the bone.
7. Once the rice is cooked, add the frozen peas to the pot and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the peas are heated through.
8. Serve the Arroz con Pato hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.

This recipe serves 4-6 people and is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. The combination of tender, flavorful duck and aromatic rice is sure to impress and satisfy even the most discerning palates. Enjoy!