Rice with wine

Rice with mushrooms and wine: a recipe full of flavors

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

I present to you a simple and delicious recipe for rice with mushrooms and wine, which will transform any meal into a culinary experience. This recipe is not only quick but also full of flavor, making it perfect for a family dinner or to impress guests. The rice cooked this way becomes creamy and aromatic, thanks to the combination of wine and vegetables. Let's get started!

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 cup rice (preferably long-grain rice that separates well)
- 1 cup semi-dry rosé wine (I recommend a quality wine that brings a pleasant fruity note and acidity)
- 3 cups water (or vegetable broth for added flavor)
- 2 medium onions
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 1/2 carrot (preferably fresh)
- 8 mushroom stalks (you can use champignon mushrooms, but also other varieties like porcini or oyster mushrooms)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for an intense and healthy taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika (for a splash of color and flavor)
- Salt, to taste

Practical tip: If you want to achieve even more aromatic rice, you can add a few bay leaves or a pinch of black pepper during cooking.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cleaning the vegetables. Chop the onion and mushrooms finely, using a sharp knife to ensure even cuts. Slice the garlic thinly, and peel and cut the carrot into thin strips using a peeler or knife.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large skillet or a heavy-bottomed pot, add the 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.

3. Adding the mushrooms and carrot: As soon as the onion is translucent, add the carrot and chopped mushrooms. Stir frequently to prevent the vegetables from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms release their juices and become tender.

4. Including the rice: Add the rice to the skillet and mix well, ensuring that each grain of rice is coated with oil and vegetables. Let it sauté together for 2-3 minutes to intensify its flavor.

5. Deglazing with wine: Once the rice is slightly sautéed, pour the cup of rosé wine over the mixture. Stir continuously and let it boil until the liquid evaporates almost completely. This step is essential to allow the rice to absorb the flavors of the wine.

6. Cooking the rice: Once the wine has evaporated, start adding the water gradually, one cup at a time. Stir occasionally and let the liquid evaporate between additions. Continue this process for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice becomes soft and creamy. If using vegetable broth, now is the time to add it.

7. Seasoning: When the rice is cooked, add salt and sweet paprika to taste. Mix well, then let the dish rest for a few minutes, covered, to allow the flavors to meld.

8. Serving: The rice with mushrooms and wine is served warm, garnished with fresh parsley or basil leaves for an extra touch of freshness. You can accompany it with a crunchy green salad or a garlic yogurt sauce to balance the flavors.

Possible variations: You can add other vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini to diversify the recipe. If you like spicy flavors, you can also add a sliced chili pepper. Additionally, for a non-vegetarian option, you can add pieces of chicken or shrimp, cooking them together with the vegetables at the beginning.

Calories and nutritional benefits: This recipe for rice with mushrooms and wine is low in calories, with approximately 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the type of wine used. Rice is an excellent source of carbohydrates, and mushrooms provide a significant amount of B vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. This meal is perfect for a balanced diet, also having benefits for the immune system.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I replace the wine? Yes, if you prefer a non-alcoholic recipe, you can use grape juice or water with a bit of apple cider vinegar to maintain acidity.

2. What else can I add for extra protein? You can add cooked lentils, chickpeas, or tofu, which can easily be integrated into this dish.

3. How can I store the rice for the next day? The rice stores well in the refrigerator in an airtight container. I recommend reheating it in the microwave or on the stove with a little water to rehydrate it.

I invite you to try this simple and delicious recipe for rice with mushrooms and wine, which will bring a touch of flavor to your life! Enjoy your meal!