Basmati & wild rice with pork chop

Basmati and wild rice with pork chop

Welcome to a savory culinary journey, where flavors intertwine harmoniously to create a delicious and comforting dish: basmati and wild rice with pork chop. This recipe combines the fluffy texture of basmati rice with the unmistakable flavor of pork chop, resulting in a dish that will impress anyone, even those who are not fans of rice. Let's get to work!

Total time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

For the pork chop:
- 4 slices of pork chop (about 150-200g each)
- 2 medium carrots, cut into sticks
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 200g mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 300ml vegetable broth
- 1-2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
- Salt and white pepper, to taste

For the basmati and wild rice:
- 1 cup of basmati rice
- ½ cup of wild rice
- 2½ cups of water or vegetable broth
- 1 onion (optional, whole or cut into large pieces)
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 carrot, cut into strips (for color)
- Salt, to taste
- White pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (parsley or dill), for serving

Ingredients and their benefits:

Basmati rice is valued for its delicate aroma and fluffy texture, being a good source of complex carbohydrates that provide long-lasting energy. Wild rice, although not a true rice, adds a note of nutrition and a slightly nutty flavor. Pork chop is an excellent source of protein, and carrots and red bell pepper contribute essential vitamins and antioxidants.

Preparing the pork chop:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by cutting the pork chop slices thicker (about 2-3 cm) to ensure juiciness. Season with salt, white pepper, and add the rosemary, which will provide a fresh aroma.

2. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. In a baking dish, add olive oil and place the pork chop slices. Add the cut carrots and sliced onion. Pour the vegetable broth over, so that the ingredients are covered.

3. Baking: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for about 30 minutes. If you notice that the broth is reducing too much, you can add a little more broth or water.

4. Adding the mushrooms: About 10-15 minutes before the end of baking, add the sliced mushrooms to brown and absorb the flavors of the dish.

Preparing the basmati and wild rice:

1. Washing the rice: Wash the basmati and wild rice under cold running water until the water runs clear. This step is essential to remove excess starch and achieve fluffy rice.

2. Boiling the water: In a pot, bring 2½ cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add a whole or cut onion, the carrot strips, salt, and a little white pepper.

3. Adding the rice: Once the water boils, add the washed rice and 4 tablespoons of olive oil. Gently stir and cover the pot with a lid.

4. Boiling: Let the rice simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes or until the water is completely absorbed. The rice will be ready when the grains are separate and fluffy. Turn off the heat and let it sit covered for a few minutes to puff up even more.

5. Finishing: Before serving, add the chopped fresh herbs and gently stir to incorporate the flavors.

Serving:

To serve, place a generous portion of basmati and wild rice on a plate, topped with a few slices of browned pork chop, along with the carrots and mushrooms from the dish. You can garnish the plate with a few leaves of fresh herbs for an appetizing look. This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine or fresh lemonade, adding a note of freshness to your meal.

Variations and tips:

If you want to customize this recipe, you can try different types of vegetables or spices. For example, you can add zucchini or broccoli to the dish for extra color and nutrients. You can also experiment with spices like cumin or sweet paprika to give the dish a distinct flavor.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use another type of meat? Absolutely! This recipe also works with chicken or turkey breast, and the cooking time will be similar.

2. How can I store leftovers? Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. If you want to reheat, add a little water to avoid drying out.

3. How healthy is this dish? This is a balanced meal, rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins from the vegetables, providing a healthy alternative for lunch or dinner.

This basmati and wild rice with pork chop recipe is not only a filling dish but also an opportunity to explore combinations of flavors and textures. With each bite, you will enjoy a complex and comforting taste, perfect for being savored with family and friends. So let's put on our aprons and enjoy this culinary adventure!