Brown rice with vegetables

Delicious brown rice with vegetables recipe: a healthy and quick option

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 2

In search of a quick and healthy dessert, brown rice with vegetables is an excellent choice. This simple recipe combines the fresh flavors of vegetables with the nutritional texture of brown rice, providing you with a dish full of flavor and health benefits. Here’s how to prepare it step by step.

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 small cup of brown rice
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 can of mushrooms, drained
- 3 cups of water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil or butter for sautéing the vegetables

Step 1: Preparing the rice
Start by rinsing the brown rice under cold running water. This step helps remove the starch and makes the rice less sticky. In a medium pot, add the rice and the 3 cups of water. Place the pot over medium heat and bring everything to a boil. Once the water starts boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let the rice simmer for 10 minutes. After this time, turn off the heat and let the rice sit covered for another 10 minutes, allowing it to absorb all the water. This trick will ensure perfectly cooked, fluffy rice without being sticky.

Step 2: Preparing the vegetables
While the rice is cooking, you can prepare the vegetables. In a large skillet, add a few tablespoons of olive oil or a small piece of butter. Heat the skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the diced green pepper and the drained mushrooms. Continue to sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and slightly browned. You can add salt and pepper to taste, but don’t overdo it, as the flavors will intensify.

Step 3: Combining the ingredients
Once the rice and vegetables are ready, add the cooked rice to the skillet over the vegetables. Mix well to combine all the ingredients. Cook everything together on low heat for 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld. If desired, you can also add some spices, such as turmeric or paprika, for an extra boost of flavor and color.

Serve the brown rice with vegetables warm, as a main dish or as a side. A delicious serving option is to top it with a few fresh parsley or basil leaves for a vibrant look and a touch of freshness. You can also sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top for added crunch.

Helpful tips:
- You can vary the vegetables according to the season or your preferences. Zucchini, carrots, or fresh peas are excellent additions.
- If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can sauté the vegetables in a wok for a unique aroma.
- Brown rice is a healthy choice, rich in fiber, but if time is an issue, you can use basmati rice or white rice, which cooks much faster.

This brown rice with vegetables recipe is not only simple and quick but also packed with essential nutrients for a healthy lifestyle. Try it today and enjoy a delicious and comforting dish!