Rice with Mushrooms (Lenten)

To prepare a delicious dish with mushrooms and rice, we start by gathering the necessary ingredients. Make sure you have fresh mushrooms, preferably champignon or pleurotus, onion, garlic, rice, vegetable broth or water, salt, pepper, and sweet paprika. Carefully wash the mushrooms under a stream of cold water, removing any impurities. Then, dry them with a paper towel and slice them thinly or into strips, as preferred.

In a pot, pour the vegetable broth or water and bring it to a boil. When it starts to boil, add the rice, stirring gently to prevent sticking. Reduce the heat to low and let the rice cook slowly until it absorbs all the liquid and becomes fluffy. This process can take between 15 and 20 minutes, depending on the type of rice used.

Meanwhile, in a skillet heated over medium heat, add a little olive oil or butter and add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent and starts to caramelize slightly. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and mix well to distribute them evenly in the skillet. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms brown slightly and release their juices.

Once the mushrooms are ready, add salt, pepper, and paprika to taste to enhance the flavors. You can also add 2-3 finely chopped garlic cloves for an extra kick of flavor. Mix the ingredients well and let them combine for a few minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant but does not burn.

After the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and mix it with the sautéed mushrooms. Use a spatula to ensure an even distribution of the ingredients. The dish can be served warm, straight from the skillet, but it is also delicious at room temperature, making it perfect for a quick lunch or a relaxing dinner. You can also add freshly chopped parsley on top for a special look and fresh taste. Enjoy your aromatic dish full of textures and colors!