One Pot Peri Peri Rice with Bell Peppers and Tomatoes
A vibrant one-pot rice dish inspired by Nando's famous peri peri flavors. Tender long-grain rice absorbs the smoky heat of peri peri sauce while cooking alongside sautéed onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes. The rice toasts briefly with the vegetables before simmering, creating deeper flavor throughout. Perfect as a side dish for grilled chicken or as a standalone meal when you crave bold, Portuguese-inspired spice. This simplified version delivers restaurant flavor with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
- 1 large onion, diced very finely
- 1 large bell pepper, any color, diced fine
- 8 oz canned diced tomatoes, drained
- 2 tbsp Nando's spicy peri peri saucesriracha + paprika1 tbsp sriracha + 1 tsp paprikaspicy
Less authentic but similar heat level
- ½ cup long grain white ricejasmine rice1:1
Works well but texture slightly different
- 1 cup water
- oil, for cooking
Instructions
- 1
Heat oil in a large, heavy pan until shimmery
- 2
Add onion and bell pepper, sauté until soft and lightly browned
- 3
Add canned tomatoes, peri peri sauce, and rice, stir well
- 4
Toast rice with vegetables, stirring to prevent sticking or burning
- 5
Add water and bring to a boil
- 6
Reduce heat to low and cover, cook until rice is soft and fluffy
- 7
Stir to fluff and top with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley
Tips
Toast the rice with vegetables for deeper flavor before adding liquid
Use a heavy-bottomed pan to prevent burning during the toasting step
Good to Know
Refrigerate covered for up to 3 days
Can be made 1 day ahead and reheated with splash of water
Serve hot as a side dish or add protein for complete meal
Common Mistakes
Don't skip toasting the rice to avoid bland flavor
Keep heat low during simmering to prevent burning
Substitutions
Less authentic but similar heat level
FAQ
Can I use brown rice instead?
Yes, but increase cooking time to 45 minutes and add extra water as brown rice takes longer to cook and absorbs more liquid.
What if I can't find peri peri sauce?
Mix sriracha with paprika and a pinch of garlic powder, or use any spicy chili sauce with similar heat level.
How long will leftovers keep?
Store covered in refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water to restore moisture.