Lia, a Cuban content creator known on Instagram as @en_casa_con_lia, has captivated thousands of followers with her unique and delectable take on the traditional imperial rice, a signature dish in Cuban cuisine.
In a recent video, Lia guides viewers through her personalized recipe step-by-step, and it has certainly made waves for its creativity and flavorful punch.
Rather than sticking to the conventional layers of yellow rice, shredded chicken, mayonnaise, and melted cheese, Lia decided to elevate the dish to a whole new level.
Her version of imperial rice features four layers alternating rice with a generous spread of mayonnaise, and she intriguingly adds shredded beef, pork, chicken, and ground ham.
Lia explains that she cooks the rice using broth derived from tenderizing the meats, contributing a deep and authentic flavor. For its signature yellow hue, she suggests using food coloring, cautioning against the use of curry or saffron as they completely alter the traditional taste of Cuban imperial rice.
Although Lia skips the cheese, a component often considered essential in this recipe, she clarifies that those who prefer can add it to each layer or at the end for a gratin finish, adapting the dish to personal taste.
The result is a generous, juicy, and visually irresistible imperial rice, sparking enthusiastic comments from her followers: "What a treat!", "This is insane", "I need to live near your house", are just a few of the reactions her post has garnered.
Lia proves that Cuban cuisine is more vibrant than ever on social media and that there's always room for creativity, even with the most traditional dishes.
Exploring the World of Cuban Imperial Rice
What is imperial rice?
Imperial rice is a classic Cuban dish featuring layers of yellow rice, typically combined with shredded chicken, mayonnaise, and cheese, known for its rich flavors and textures.
How does Lia's version differ from the traditional recipe?
Lia's version of imperial rice features additional meats like shredded beef, pork, and ham, and she uses broth from cooking the meats for added flavor, while omitting cheese.
Can I add cheese to Lia's imperial rice?
Yes, while Lia's recipe omits cheese, she suggests that you can incorporate it into each layer or use it as a topping for a gratin finish, depending on personal preference.