Rice with vegetables and mushrooms

Rice pilaf with vegetables and mushrooms - Delicious and economical fasting recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 30 minutes Total time: 45 minutes Servings: 4

Introduction

Who said fasting dishes can't be flavorful and satisfying? This rice pilaf with vegetables and mushrooms is living proof that you can create a delicious and nutritious meal without using animal-derived ingredients. It's a simple, quick, and affordable recipe, perfect for days when you want to eat healthily and save money.

Over time, pilafs have become a popular dish in many cultures, each adding its personal touch. This version is inspired by culinary traditions that emphasize seasonal vegetables and grains, providing a tasty and healthy dish.

Ingredients needed

- 1 cup rice (preferably long-grain)
- 1 large carrot
- 2 medium onions
- 1 red bell pepper
- A handful of peas (fresh or frozen)
- 200 g frozen sliced mushrooms
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 3-4 tablespoons oil (preferably olive or sunflower oil)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (optional, for color and flavor)

Ingredient details

- Rice: Choose a quality long-grain rice to achieve a fluffy texture. Basmati or jasmine rice are excellent for this recipe.
- Carrot: Provides sweetness and vitamins. Choose fresh carrots with a vibrant color.
- Onion: Adds a flavorful base to the dish. You can use white or yellow onions, depending on your preferences.
- Bell pepper: Can be replaced with yellow or green peppers, depending on what you have on hand.
- Peas: If using frozen peas, there is no need to thaw them before use.
- Mushrooms: Frozen sliced mushrooms are a convenient choice, but you can also use fresh mushrooms for a more intense flavor.
- Turmeric: It is optional but adds a golden hue and a subtle taste. Additionally, turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties.

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by peeling and washing all the vegetables. Chop the onion finely, slice the pepper into thin strips, and grate the carrot on the large holes of a grater. These preparations are essential for ensuring even and quick cooking.

2. Sautéing the onion: In a pot, add the 3-4 tablespoons of oil and place it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This is when the onion will release its aroma and provide a warm base for your dish.

3. Adding the vegetables: Once the onion is sautéed, add the pepper and carrot. Let them cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become slightly soft.

4. Including the mushrooms and peas: Add the sliced mushrooms and peas. Sauté the mixture for 7-8 minutes, stirring constantly, to allow the vegetables to combine and reveal their flavors.

5. Adding the rice: Place the rice in the pot and mix it well with the vegetables to sauté it slightly. This step will help the rice absorb the flavors from the vegetables.

6. Cooking the pilaf: Pour 3 cups of warm water into the pot (the rule is 1 part rice to 3 parts water). Stir gently and let it boil. Once the water starts to boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is completely absorbed and the rice is cooked.

7. Seasoning: Finally, add salt and pepper to taste. If you chose to use turmeric, now is the time to add it, mixing well.

8. Serving: Once the pilaf is ready, take it off the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Then, serve it warm, perhaps with a fresh green salad on the side or even with pickles for a pleasant contrast.

Serving suggestions

For an extra touch, you can add some chopped fresh parsley on top before serving. This vegetable pilaf can be an excellent side dish for other meals or served as a main dish alongside a light salad.

Possible variations

- You can add other vegetables of your choice, such as zucchini or eggplant, depending on the season.
- If you like a spicier taste, try adding a hot pepper or a bit of paprika.
- Instead of frozen mushrooms, you can use fresh mushrooms like champignon or shiitake for a more interesting texture.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use brown rice? Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.

2. What can I do if I don’t have peas? You can use chopped green beans or even corn, depending on your preferences.

3. Is this recipe suitable for freezing? Yes, this pilaf freezes well. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in airtight containers.

Nutritional benefits

This rice pilaf with vegetables and mushrooms is not only a delicious choice but also a healthy one. Rice is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy, while the vegetables bring the necessary vitamins and minerals for a balanced diet. Mushrooms are an excellent source of antioxidants, and turmeric, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, further enhances the nutritional profile of this dish.

Calories

A serving of rice pilaf with vegetables and mushrooms contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and additional ingredients. It is a filling meal that can easily be included in a healthy and balanced diet.

Now that you have all the details, all that's left is to get cooking. Enjoy the delicious aroma of this pilaf and the satisfaction of preparing a tasty and healthy fasting meal!