As the temperature drops, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of arroz caldo to soothe the soul. This Filipino favorite is a staple on many tables during cold winter nights, and for good reason – its savory, slightly sweet flavor profile is guaranteed to hit the spot. But why settle for just one recipe when you can try them all? In this article, we’re excited to share 20 flavorful arroz caldo recipes that will keep you cozy and satisfied until spring arrives.
From classic chicken and ginger versions to seafood, vegetarian, and even meat-lovers’ options, our collection of recipes is designed to cater to every taste and dietary preference. Whether you’re a fan of spicy kick or prefer a milder flavor profile, we’ve got you covered. So grab a spoon and get ready to dive into the world of arroz caldo – your taste buds will thank you!
Classic Chicken Arroz Caldo with Ginger and Garlic
A comforting and flavorful Filipino-inspired dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines the richness of chicken, saffron-infused rice, and aromatics like ginger and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for frying
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add rice, broth, saffron mixture, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds (optional).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Arroz Caldo with Chili and Turmeric
This spicy take on traditional arroz caldo adds a kick from chili flakes and the warmth of turmeric, making it a perfect comfort food for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt to taste
– Optional: cooked chicken or vegetables for added protein and texture
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; sauté until the mixture is soft and fragrant.
3. Add rice, broth, chili flakes, and turmeric. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
5. Season with salt to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Seafood Arroz Caldo with Shrimp and Squid
A creamy and flavorful Filipino-inspired rice dish, Seafood Arroz Caldo is a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines succulent shrimp and squid with aromatic spices and vegetables in a savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 pound squid rings
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
2. Add shrimp, squid, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until seafood is pink and cooked through.
3. Add rice to the pot and stir to combine with the seafood mixture.
4. Add water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegetarian Arroz Caldo with Mushrooms and Tofu
This comforting Filipino-inspired rice porridge is a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian twist on the classic dish, packed with tender mushrooms and silky tofu.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of uncooked white rice
– 4 cups of vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 8 oz of mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1/2 cup of firm tofu, cubed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add the mushrooms; cook until they release their moisture and start to brown.
3. Add the rice, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender and creamy.
5. Add the tofu; stir gently to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Filipino-Style Arroz Caldo with Hard-Boiled Eggs
Arroz Caldo is a comforting and flavorful Filipino rice porridge that’s perfect for any meal. This recipe adds the richness of hard-boiled eggs, making it an even more satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups uncooked white rice
• 4 cups water or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
• Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse rice in a fine-mesh sieve until water runs clear.
2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add rice and stir to coat with oil mixture. Cook for 2 minutes.
4. Add water or broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked.
5. Slice hard-boiled eggs and add to the porridge. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Pork Arroz Caldo with Lemongrass and Fish Sauce
This Filipino-inspired dish combines the comforting warmth of arroz caldo (a traditional chicken and rice porridge) with the bold flavors of lemongrass and fish sauce, adding a tender and juicy pork component. The result is a hearty and aromatic meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder or butt, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine pork, rice, chicken broth, lemongrass, fish sauce, onion, and garlic.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the pork is tender.
3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
5. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Arroz Caldo with Crispy Garlic and Fried Shallots
Warm up with this hearty and flavorful Arroz Caldo, a popular Filipino chicken and rice porridge. This comforting dish is elevated by the crispy garlic and fried shallots adding a satisfying crunch to each spoonful.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 4-6 shallots, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
2. Add chicken, garlic, onion, and chicken broth to the pot. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Simmer until chicken is cooked through and rice is tender (about 20-25 minutes).
4. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Fry shallots until crispy and golden brown.
5. Stir-fry minced garlic until crispy, then set aside.
6. Serve Arroz Caldo hot, topped with fried shallots, crispy garlic, and a squeeze of rice vinegar (if using).
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Arroz Caldo with Coconut Milk and Lemongrass
Arroz Caldo, a comforting Filipino chicken rice porridge, gets an exotic twist with the addition of coconut milk and fragrant lemongrass. This creamy and aromatic take on a classic dish is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised and chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic in a little oil until cooked through.
2. Add the chopped lemongrass, chicken broth, coconut milk, and rice. Stir well to combine.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef Arroz Caldo with Bone Marrow and Ginger
This recipe is a twist on the classic Beef Arroz Caldo, adding rich bone marrow and spicy ginger to create a deeply flavorful and comforting dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef shanks or short ribs
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 inches ginger, peeled and grated
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 bone marrow bones (about 1 pound)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add beef, onion, and garlic; cook until browned.
2. Add ginger, rice, broth, water, fish sauce (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to boil then reduce heat to low.
3. Simmer for 45 minutes or until rice is tender and meat falls apart easily.
4. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast bone marrow bones for 10-12 minutes or until caramelized.
5. Serve Beef Arroz Caldo with roasted bone marrow on top.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Arroz Caldo with Quail Eggs and Spring Onions
This comforting Filipino-style chicken and rice porridge is elevated by the creamy addition of quail eggs and the pungency of spring onions. A perfect remedy for a chilly day or a satisfying meal any time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 6 quail eggs, hard-boiled and sliced
– 2 spring onions, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add rice and stir to combine with the chicken mixture.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked and creamy.
5. Stir in sliced quail eggs and spring onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Arroz Caldo with Turmeric and Saffron Infusion
Arroz Caldo, a classic Filipino comfort food, gets an extra boost of flavor and warmth with the addition of turmeric and saffron. This aromatic rice porridge is perfect for chilly days or when you need a soothing meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– Salt to taste
– Freshly cooked chicken or pork, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add rice, turmeric, and salt. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until rice is cooked.
4. Stir in saffron infusion (drained of excess water). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot with chopped chicken or pork, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Arroz Caldo with Chicken Liver and Heart
Arroz Caldo is a popular Filipino comfort food that warms the soul. This recipe adds an extra layer of richness by incorporating chicken liver and heart, making it a satisfying meal for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 1/2 cup chicken liver, sliced
– 1/2 cup chicken heart, sliced
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and tomato; cook until onions are translucent.
3. Add chicken pieces, liver, and heart; cook until browned.
4. Add rice, broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Arroz Caldo with Adobo Flavor and Bay Leaves
This traditional Filipino comfort food gets a savory boost from the addition of adobo seasoning and fragrant bay leaves. This hearty rice porridge is perfect for a cozy night in or as a filling meal any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 teaspoons adobo seasoning
– 2 bay leaves
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
2. Add the rice and stir to coat with the oil mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the water, chicken broth, adobo seasoning, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
4. Remove the bay leaves and season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Arroz Caldo with Sweet Corn and Chicken Thighs
Arroz Caldo, a popular Filipino comfort food, gets a delicious twist with the addition of sweet corn and juicy chicken thighs. This recipe is perfect for a cozy evening or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sweet corn kernels
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the rice, sweet corn, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Arroz Caldo with Ginger Tea Infusion and Chili Oil
Arroz Caldo is a comforting Filipino dish that warms the soul. This recipe infuses the classic congee with the spicy kick of chili oil and the soothing properties of ginger tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp chili oil
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
2. Add chicken, garlic, and onion to the pot. Simmer for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Stir in chili oil and ground ginger.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or fried garlic if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Arroz Caldo with Shredded Chicken and Lime Wedges
Arroz Caldo is a popular Filipino comfort food that’s perfect for any time of the day. This recipe uses shredded chicken and adds a burst of citrus flavor with lime wedges.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lime wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice, chicken broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
5. Add the shredded chicken and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot with lime wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Arroz Caldo with Smoked Fish and Green Mango
Arroz Caldo is a classic Filipino comfort food dish that typically consists of chicken and rice cooked in a savory broth. In this recipe, we add a unique twist by incorporating smoked fish and green mango for added depth and freshness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup smoked fish (such as tilapia or mackerel), flaked
– 1 medium green mango, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the rice, water or broth, smoked fish, green mango, onion, and garlic.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Arroz Caldo with Pumpkin and Coconut Cream
Arroz Caldo, a popular Filipino comfort food, gets a delicious twist with the addition of roasted pumpkin and rich coconut cream. This creamy rice porridge is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium pumpkin, roasted and diced (about 1 cup)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can coconut cream (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cooked chicken or pork, chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
2. Add rice and cook, stirring constantly, until lightly toasted (about 5 minutes).
3. Add water, pumpkin, chicken broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and rice is cooked.
4. Stir in coconut cream. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Arroz Caldo with Longganisa and Garlic Chips
Arroz Caldo is a comforting and flavorful rice porridge that’s popular in the Philippines. This recipe adds a savory twist by incorporating longganisa (Filipino sausage) and crispy garlic chips for added texture.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups water or chicken broth
– 1/2 cup sliced longganisa
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
– Garlic chips (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and combine with water or chicken broth in a large pot.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
3. Add sliced longganisa and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Stir in minced garlic and season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with crispy garlic chips.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Arroz Caldo with Lemongrass and Kaffir Lime Leaves
Arroz Caldo is a popular Filipino comfort food that warms the soul. This recipe adds a fragrant and citrusy twist by incorporating lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 whole chicken breast or thigh, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 2 kaffir lime leaves
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned.
2. Add the lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, onion, and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Summary
Stay warm on cold nights with these 20 flavorful Arroz Caldo recipes! From classic chicken to spicy seafood, and even vegetarian and vegan options, this Filipino comfort food staple has never been more exciting. Discover unique twists like ginger and garlic, lemongrass and fish sauce, or coconut milk and turmeric. Whether you’re a fan of meat, seafood, or plant-based ingredients, there’s an Arroz Caldo recipe here to satisfy your cravings. So cozy up with a bowl of this hearty rice porridge and let the warmth spread!