Rice with tomato juice and cheese

Rice with tomato juice and cheese - a delicious recipe for a comforting meal

In a world full of sophisticated dishes, sometimes it's good to return to simple recipes that remind us of childhood flavors. Rice with tomato juice and cheese is such a recipe, combining accessible ingredients into a savory and aromatic dish. It's an excellent choice for lunch or dinner, perfect for impressing loved ones or treating yourself after a long day.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

2 boneless chicken thighs
1 red bell pepper
1 green bell pepper
1 onion
1 carrot
1 cup of rice
100 g butter
150 g cheese
1 cup tomato juice
salt
pepper
fresh parsley, chopped

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling and finely chopping the onion. Grate the carrot using a large grater, and you can chop the bell peppers (red and green) into cubes or strips, depending on your preference. Cut the chicken thighs into equal-sized cubes for even cooking.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Then, add the carrot and bell peppers, letting them sauté together for another 5 minutes. This process will bring the flavors of the vegetables to life, providing a delicious backdrop for your dish.

3. Adding the meat: Once the vegetables are sautéed, add the chicken cubes. Stir well to coat them with the flavored butter. Pour in a cup of water and let everything simmer, stirring occasionally, until the water reduces almost completely. This step is essential for achieving tender and juicy meat.

4. Cooking the rice: Meanwhile, rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch. This will help prevent the rice from sticking too much while cooking. Boil the rice in salted water according to the package instructions, then drain well. The cooked rice will add a pleasant texture and absorb all the flavors from the meat and vegetable mixture.

5. Combining the ingredients: When the water in the skillet has reduced, add the cooked rice over the meat and vegetable mixture. Stir continuously for about 5 minutes. This step will allow the flavors to combine perfectly.

6. Preparing for the oven: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Grease a baking dish with a little butter or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Transfer the rice and meat mixture to the dish, leveling it evenly.

7. Adding the tomato juice and cheese: Pour the tomato juice on top and sprinkle the grated cheese. This layer of cheese will create a delicious golden crust during baking.

8. Baking: Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese melts and turns slightly golden. The aroma that will fill your kitchen during this time will be simply irresistible!

9. Serving: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for an extra touch of freshness and color. You can serve the rice with tomato juice and cheese alongside a fresh salad or pickles for a pleasant contrast of flavors.

Practical tips:

- You can replace the chicken thighs with turkey meat or even a vegetarian option using mushrooms or tofu.
- Add spices like sweet paprika or herbs to give it an even more intense flavor.
- If you like spicy dishes, feel free to add a little chopped chili pepper.

Nutritional information:

This rice with tomato juice and cheese recipe is not only tasty but also quite balanced. One serving contains approximately 500 calories, providing protein from the meat, carbohydrates from the rice, and healthy fats from the butter and cheese. The vegetables add essential vitamins and antioxidants, making this dish a healthy choice.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use brown rice?
Yes, brown rice is a healthier option, but make sure to cook it longer according to the instructions.

2. How can I store leftovers?
You can store the leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.

3. Is this recipe suitable for children?
Absolutely! The mild flavor and pleasant textures make this recipe an ideal choice for the whole family.

4. What drinks pair best?
A dry white wine or freshly squeezed tomato juice pairs perfectly with this dish. Also, a cold fruit tea can add a refreshing touch.

By experimenting with ingredients and spices, you can transform this recipe into a personalized masterpiece. Rice with tomato juice and cheese thus becomes not just a dish, but a culinary experience full of flavor and joy. Enjoy your meal!