Rice with oven sauce

Baked Rice with Sauce – a delicious and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to the culinary world of savory recipes! Today, I will guide you step by step in preparing a baked rice with sauce recipe that will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of nostalgia in every bite. This recipe combines fluffy rice with a rich meat and vegetable sauce, offering a complete meal full of nutrients.

Recipe History

Baked rice with sauce is a recipe that has been cherished for generations, often prepared on holidays or family gatherings. This combination of rice with meat and vegetables is not only filling but also very versatile, allowing you to experiment with various ingredients based on your preferences.

Ingredients

- 200 g long-grain rice
- 400 g ground pork
- 400 g mushrooms
- 400 g peas
- 100 g red beans (preferably cooked)
- 250 ml tomato juice
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Oil (for frying)

Step-by-step preparation

1. Cooking the beans: Start by rinsing the red beans under cold running water to remove impurities. Then, boil them in salted water for about 30 minutes or until soft. After boiling, drain the beans and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process.

2. Boiling the rice: In a separate pot, add 400 ml of water and a pinch of salt. When the water starts to boil, add the rice and let it cook for 20 minutes, then drain and quickly rinse under cold water. This step is essential to prevent the rice grains from sticking together.

3. Preparing the sauce: In a large skillet, heat a few tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the ground meat and sauté until lightly browned. Then, add half of the sliced mushrooms and continue cooking for 5 minutes.

4. Adding wet ingredients: Pour the tomato juice over the meat and mushroom mixture. Add the chopped parsley, mix well, and let it simmer for 15 minutes. This sauce will add a rich flavor to your dish.

5. Combining ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, red beans, peas, and the remaining mushrooms. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently mix, being careful not to crush the rice.

6. Preparing for the oven: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Grease a baking dish with oil, then add the rice and vegetable mixture, leveling it evenly.

7. Adding the sauce: Pour the meat sauce over the rice mixture, ensuring it is evenly distributed. This step will ensure that each bite is full of flavor.

8. Baking: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven for 20 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld and penetrate the rice.

9. Serving: After the time is up, remove the dish from the oven, let it cool slightly, and serve warm. I recommend pairing it with grilled chicken breast, which will add a note of freshness and texture.

Practical tips

- Fresh ingredients: Use fresh ingredients whenever possible. Fresh parsley and mushrooms are key to achieving a vibrant taste.
- Variations: You can substitute pork with beef or chicken, and the red beans can be replaced with any other type of preferred beans.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices, such as paprika or garlic, to add an extra layer of flavor.
- Cooking the rice: If you prefer less sticky rice, you can rinse the rice before boiling it.

Nutritional information

This baked rice with sauce recipe is a nutritious option, rich in protein due to the ground meat and beans. One serving contains approximately 450 calories, making it a substantial meal that will keep you full for a long time. Peas provide fiber and essential vitamins, while mushrooms are a good source of antioxidants.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use brown rice?
Yes, brown rice is a healthier option, but the cooking time will be longer. Make sure to check the cooking instructions.

2. What other vegetables can I add?
You can add grated carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini, depending on your preferences.

3. How can I store leftovers?
Keep the leftover rice in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for 2-3 days.

So, don't wait any longer! Prepare this baked rice with sauce recipe and let yourself be impressed by its flavor. Enjoy your meal!