Baked rice is a delicious and simple dish that you can easily make at home. It is a great alternative to the traditional way of cooking rice, as it gives it a different texture and flavor. In this article, we will share with you a simple and mouth-watering recipe for baked rice that you can try in the comfort of your own kitchen. So let’s get started!
Gather the Ingredients
The first step in preparing baked rice is to gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of long-grain white rice
– 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
Preheat the Oven
Before you start cooking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that the oven is at the right temperature when it’s time to bake the rice.
Saute the Vegetables
Step 1:
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté them until they become translucent and fragrant, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
Step 2:
Next, add the frozen mixed vegetables to the skillet. Cook them for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are heated through.
Add the Rice and Broth
Step 1:
Once the vegetables are cooked, add the long-grain white rice to the skillet. Stir it gently to combine it with the vegetables.
Step 2:
Now, pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Add the salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and dried oregano to the mixture as well. Stir everything together to ensure that the seasoning is evenly distributed.
Bake the Rice
Step 1:
Cover the skillet or pot tightly with a lid or aluminum foil. This will help to trap the steam and cook the rice evenly.
Step 2:
Transfer the skillet or pot to the preheated oven. Bake the rice for 30-35 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Finishing Touches
Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. This will allow the rice to settle and the flavors to meld together.
Step 1:
Remove the lid or foil from the skillet and fluff the rice with a fork. This will help to separate the grains and prevent them from sticking together.
Step 2:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the rice. The heat from the rice will melt the cheese and create a deliciously cheesy topping.
Step 3:
Give the rice a final gentle stir to incorporate the melted cheese. This will ensure that every spoonful is evenly coated with the cheesy goodness.
Serve and Enjoy!
Your baked rice is now ready to be served! You can enjoy it as a side dish with your favorite protein, or even as a main course with a side salad. The possibilities are endless!
Baked rice is not only tasty but also a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your preferences. Feel free to add other ingredients such as cooked chicken, shrimp, or a variety of vegetables to make it your own.
In conclusion, cooking baked rice is a simple and delicious way to elevate your rice game. With just a few basic ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a flavorful and satisfying dish that your family and friends will love. So why not give this recipe a try? Happy cooking!