At SONMO, we believe that few things are as meaningful as gathering around a table. Sharing food has been, since ancient times, an act of unity and celebration. It’s during these moments that memories are made, bonds are strengthened, and traditions that connect us to our roots are celebrated.
In Mallorca, dishes like Arrós Brut are the heart of such gatherings. This hearty, flavorful rice stew has accompanied generations during festive meals, becoming a symbol of our culinary heritage. Today, we’re excited to share our special version of this dish, adapted to add a festive twist that combines tradition, local ingredients, and options you can prepare no matter where you are.
INGREDIENTS FOR 6 PEOPLE
Rice:
- Ideally, use Arròs Bombeta Pobler, known for its ability to absorb flavors without losing texture. If unavailable, you can use Bomba Sénia or paella rice.
Protein:
- 200 g rabbit, chopped.
- 200 g Mallorcan black pork ribs (or Iberian pork ribs as a substitute).
- 200 g chicken (optional but adds tender texture and additional flavor).
- 6 thrushes or, alternatively, 3 wood pigeons. If unavailable, use quails or duck legs.
Wild Mushrooms:
- 150 g esclata-sangs (Lactarius sanguifluus, preferred over Lactarius deliciosus for its more intense flavor).
- 150 g picornells or cames seques, known as chanterelles (Cantharellus cibarius). Since their season runs from September to November, we often preserve them in olive oil for use throughout the year. If you don’t have access to quality wild mushrooms you can use shitake.
Vegetables:
- 1 ripe tomato, grated.
- 1 red pepper, diced.
- 2 garlic cloves.
- 1 medium onion.
- 100 g green beans.
Spices:
- 1 cinnamon stick.
- 1 bay leaf.
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg.
- Black pepper, sweet paprika, and saffron to taste.
Broth:
- 2 liters of homemade broth made with bones, chicken, and vegetables.
SONMO extra virgin olive oil for sautéing.
PREPARATION
- Prepare the Sauté Base: In a clay pot or heavy-bottomed pan, heat a generous drizzle of SONMO olive oil and brown the meat (rabbit, ribs, chicken, and thrushes or their alternatives) until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables; In the same oil, add the onion, garlic, and pepper, and cook over medium heat until tender. Stir in the grated tomato and cook until the mixture thickens.
- Add the Spices: Add the cinnamon stick, bay leaf, paprika, nutmeg, and saffron. Mix well to incorporate the spices into the base.
- Cook the Mushrooms and Meat: Return the meat to the pot along with the mushrooms. Cook for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
- Add the Broth and Rice: Pour in the hot broth and bring to a boil. Adjust salt and pepper. Add the rice and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally. The result should be a brothy rice with deep, balanced flavors.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
The Perfect Accompaniments
A dish as special as Arrós Brut deserves the perfect pairings to create an unforgettable experience. Here are our recommendations:
- Red Wine: A Mallorcan Mantonegro or Callet, with its complex notes and robust body, is the ideal companion to enhance the intense flavors of the rice. Alternatively, any good full-bodied red wine will work.
- Mallorcan Herbes Mesclades: A perfect way to end the meal with a digestif touch that balances the flavors of the Arrós Brut.
- Coffee or Carajillo: A cup of coffee or a carajillo made with Mallorcan Amazonas rum or cognac is ideal for extending the conversation after the meal.
- Desserts: Finish with a flourish by serving a fluffy ensaimada, a Lloseta Cardenal, or an almond Gató—three classics of Mallorcan tradition.
- Son Moragues Gin: For an aromatic twist, toast with a refreshing gin and tonic featuring SONMO gin.
- For the Night Owls: Embrace the tradition of placing a handful of almonds or unshelled peanuts on the table, allowing lingering guests to keep the conversation going into the evening.
A Tribute to Mallorcan Cuisine
Arrós Brut is more than a dish; it’s a celebration of local ingredients and tradition. With this recipe, you can enjoy the spirit of Mallorca anywhere, transforming a festive meal into a unique experience.
At SONMO, we celebrate the traditions of our land and invite you to bring a piece of the Tramuntana to your table.
Bon profit!
