Serbian rice

Serbian Rice - A Recipe Full of Love and Flavor

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Who doesn't fondly remember the lavish meals from childhood, when grandma would surprise us with traditional recipes full of flavor? Serbian rice is one of these recipes, a simple yet extremely tasty dish filled with fresh vegetables and flavors that can delight our taste buds. This recipe is not just a meal, but a story, a connection to traditions and moments spent with loved ones.

Nutritional benefits:
Rice is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, providing energy throughout the day. The vegetables in this recipe contribute significantly to vitamins and minerals, while the intense flavors of the spices will transform each bite into an unforgettable culinary experience.

Necessary ingredients:
- 300 g rice
- 1 medium zucchini
- 3 onions
- 2 peppers (preferably one bell pepper and one capia for a more complex flavor)
- 2 carrots
- 1 parsnip
- 1 parsley root
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 200 g celery
- 3 medium potatoes (for a creamy texture)
- 4 tomatoes (fresh, for an intense flavor)
- Salt, pepper (to taste)
- Dried and crushed chili pepper (optional, for extra spiciness)
- 50 ml oil (olive or sunflower)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling and chopping the vegetables. The onion will be finely chopped, while the zucchini, carrots, parsnip, celery, and potatoes will be diced. The tomatoes can be chopped into small cubes, and the peppers can be sliced or diced, depending on preference. Make sure you have all the ingredients ready to facilitate cooking.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent. Continue with the carrots and celery, letting them soften for a few minutes. Then, add the zucchini, parsnip, and peppers. Mix well to combine the flavors, allowing the vegetables to sauté evenly.

3. Adding the rice: Once the vegetables are sautéed, add the washed and drained rice. Let it sauté together with the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly. This step is essential as it helps release the flavors from the rice.

4. Seasoning: Sprinkle salt, pepper, and crushed chili pepper (if you desire a spicy taste) over the vegetable and rice mixture. These spices will enhance the dish's flavor.

5. Adding water: At this point, add boiling water in a ratio of 1 to 3 (so for 300 g of rice, use 900 ml of water). Mix well and bring everything to a boil. Once it starts boiling, cover the pot with a lid.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. After the mixture has started boiling, transfer the pot to the oven. Let the dish bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed all the water and has browned nicely on top.

7. Finishing the dish: Once the rice is ready, take the pot out of the oven and add the finely chopped fresh parsley, mixing gently. This final touch will give the dish a special freshness.

8. Serving: Serbian rice can be served warm, alongside a fresh salad or as a side dish for meat dishes. It is a versatile dish, ideal for vegans due to its natural and healthy ingredients.

Suggestions and variations:
- You can add other vegetables, such as peas or mushrooms, depending on your preferences.
- If you like a richer taste, you can add a few tablespoons of tomato paste during the sautéing of the vegetables.
- If you prefer a more aromatic rice, you can use vegetable broth instead of water.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but it will require a longer cooking time and more water.

2. Is the recipe suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! This recipe is completely vegan and vegetarian.

3. How can I make the rice spicier?
Add more crushed chili pepper or even a little chili sauce during cooking.

Serbian rice is more than just a dish; it is a bridge between generations, a symbol of hospitality and family warmth. So, embrace this recipe and let yourself be carried away by the pleasant memories it brings. Enjoy your meal!