Oven-baked rice with vegetables

Oven-Baked Vegetable Rice – a Delicious and Healthy Recipe

Oven-baked vegetable rice is a simple yet impressive recipe that brings together rich flavors and a pleasant texture. This versatile dish is perfect for a family dinner or a quick and healthy meal. Vegetable rice can be easily adapted according to the season and personal preferences, making it a wonderful choice for any occasion.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

The Story of the Recipe
Oven-baked vegetable rice is a traditional dish that has been cooked in various forms over time. This recipe combines the richness of seasonal vegetables with the fluffy texture of rice, offering not only a delicious taste but also a nutritious meal. Its origins can be found in different cultures, each having its own ingredients and cooking methods. Our vision for this dish is simple and healthy, focusing on fresh and natural ingredients.

Ingredients
- 200g basmati rice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 250g mushrooms, quartered
- 2 red bell peppers, diced
- 400g tomatoes, diced (fresh or canned)
- 525ml vegetable broth
- 1 bunch of parsley, chopped
- Lemon juice (optional)
- Paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Details
- Basmati rice is known for its delicate aroma and fluffy texture. Be sure to wash it well before cooking to remove excess starch, which will help achieve less sticky rice.
- Olive oil adds a rich flavor, but you can also use other types of oil, such as coconut or avocado oil, depending on your preferences.
- Onion adds a sweet taste and subtle aroma. You can also experiment with green onions or red onions for a variation in color.
- Rosemary provides an intense aromatic note but can be replaced with other herbs like oregano or thyme for a burst of different flavors.
- Mushrooms are nutrient-rich and add a pleasant texture to the dish. You can use champignon or portobello mushrooms, depending on your preferences.
- Bell peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C and add a splash of color and sweetness.
- Tomatoes will enrich the dish with their natural juice, providing moisture and a delicious taste.
- Vegetable broth can be homemade or store-bought, preferably low-sodium for a healthier option.
- Fresh parsley adds a fresh taste and is rich in antioxidants.

Cooking Technique
1. Preheat the oven: Start by heating the oven to 190 degrees Celsius to ensure even baking.
2. Prepare the rice: Wash the rice well several times under cold running water until the water runs clear. This step is essential to remove starch and prevent the grains from sticking during cooking.
3. Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and let it soften for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The onion will become translucent and release an enticing aroma.
4. Add the ingredients: Once the onion is soft, add the dried rosemary and the quartered mushrooms. Stir for a minute to combine the flavors. Then, add the rice, diced bell peppers, and diced tomatoes. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
5. Boil the mixture: Pour the vegetable broth into the pan, bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and transfer the mixture to a covered baking dish. Covering is essential to keep the moisture and allow the rice to absorb all the flavors.
6. Bake: Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. It’s good to stir occasionally, adding a bit of broth if you notice the rice starting to stick.
7. Finish the dish: After baking time is up, remove the dish from the oven and add the chopped parsley. If you want a tangy note, add a few drops of lemon juice and a sprinkle of paprika to enhance the flavors. Mix well before serving.

Practical Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding some olives or chili peppers for a spicy note.
- Vegetable rice can be served warm or at room temperature, making it ideal for picnics or summer meals.
- You can make this recipe vegetarian by adding tofu or tempeh for a protein source. It can also be adapted with seasonal vegetables available, such as zucchini or spinach.

Possible Variations
- Asian Vegetable Rice: Replace the mushrooms with shiitake mushrooms and add soy sauce instead of vegetable broth for an Asian-inspired dish.
- Mediterranean Vegetable Rice: Add green olives and feta cheese for a Mediterranean flavor.
- Mexican-Style Vegetable Rice: Include corn kernels and spices like cumin and coriander for a Mexican twist.

Pairing with Other Dishes
Oven-baked vegetable rice pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad. It can also be served alongside grilled meat, fish, or even a portion of marinated tofu. A refreshing drink, such as mint lemonade or a dry white wine, will beautifully complement this dish.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use brown rice? Yes, but the cooking time will be longer. Be sure to adjust the amount of water or broth to achieve the desired consistency.
- How can I store leftovers? Leftover rice can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave, adding a bit of water to rehydrate it.
- Is this dish vegan? Yes, it is perfectly vegan as long as you use vegetable broth without animal-derived ingredients.

Oven-baked vegetable rice is not just a delicious recipe, but also an excellent way to bring family and friends together. Enjoy every bite and let yourself be inspired by the natural flavors of vegetables and rice. Bon appétit!