Oven-baked mushroom pilaf

Mushroom Pilaf Baked – a delicious and easy-to-make recipe, perfect for any occasion

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4-6

Who doesn’t love a fragrant pilaf, full of vegetables and mushrooms? This baked mushroom pilaf recipe is not only quick and simple but also offers a rich and comforting flavor. This traditional dish has been prepared for generations, bringing together simple ingredients into a perfect combination. Whether you want to impress guests or enjoy a healthy and tasty meal at home, this pilaf is the ideal choice.

Essential ingredients:

- 2 medium onions
- 2 carrots
- 1/2 celery root
- 1 piece of parsley root
- 500 g champignon mushrooms
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley leaves, for garnish
- 1 cup of rice (preferably long-grain rice)
- 3 1/2 cups of water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter

Step by step to a perfect pilaf:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling and finely chopping the onion, carrots, celery, and parsley root. Make sure the cuts are uniform to allow for even cooking of the vegetables.

2. The mushrooms: Wash the mushrooms under cold running water and cut them into suitable cubes. This will help with even cooking and perfect integration into the pilaf.

3. Starting the cooking: In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the carrots, celery, and parsley, continuing to sauté the vegetables for another 5-7 minutes.

4. Flavoring: Sprinkle the sweet paprika over the sautéed vegetables and mix well to distribute the flavor evenly. This will give the pilaf a delicious taste and a beautiful color.

5. Adding the mushrooms: Add the chopped mushrooms to the pan and mix. Cook everything for 5 minutes until the mushrooms release their water and soften.

6. Preparing the rice: Rinse the rice under cold water to remove the starch. This step is essential for achieving a slightly sticky but not mushy pilaf. Add the rice to the pan and mix well to combine it with the vegetables.

7. Adding the water: Pour the 3 1/2 cups of water into the pan, adding salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine all ingredients. Allow the mixture to come to a boil, and when it reaches boiling point, reduce the heat from medium to low.

8. Move to the oven: Grease a baking dish with butter and transfer the pilaf mixture into it. Cover with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven at 170 degrees Celsius. Bake for about 1 hour.

9. Finishing: After an hour, remove the dish from the oven and take off the foil. Let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly, then gently fluff with a fork to aerate the rice.

10. Serving: Serve the mushroom pilaf warm, garnished with fresh parsley leaves. You can accompany this dish with a fresh green salad or a yogurt sauce for a refreshing contrast.

Tips and tricks for a perfect pilaf:

- Use high-quality rice, preferably long-grain rice, which won't stick as much.
- Experiment with other types of mushrooms, such as shiitake, portobello, or even wild mushrooms, to add extra flavor.
- You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or peas, to enrich the dish.
- If you like a more intense flavor, you can add a few cloves of sautéed garlic in the pan along with the onion.

Nutritional benefits:

This mushroom pilaf is a healthy choice, rich in vegetables and fiber. Mushrooms are an excellent source of plant-based protein and antioxidants, while rice provides complex carbohydrates essential for energy. This recipe is ideal for vegans and vegetarians, but it can also be a perfect side dish for meat.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of rice?
Yes, you can also use basmati or arborio rice, but the cooking time may vary. Adjust the amount of water according to the type of rice chosen.

2. How can I store the pilaf?
You can store the cooled pilaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little water to prevent drying out.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or a light herbal tea are excellent choices to accompany this pilaf. Additionally, a yogurt with mint can add a refreshing touch.

This baked mushroom pilaf is not just a meal, but a culinary experience. Share it with loved ones and enjoy flavorful moments. Bon appétit!