Baked Rice

Here is a classic Italian recipe for baked rice, a hearty and delicious dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish.

Ingredients

• 400 g of rice
• 150 g of mozzarella (or other melting cheese)
• 50 g of grated Parmesan cheese
• 400 g of tomato purée
• 150 g of peas (fresh or frozen)
• 100 g of ground meat (beef or pork, or a mix)
• 1 small onion
• 2-3 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt, pepper
• Basil (optional)
• Water or vegetable broth as needed

Preparation

1. Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rice for about half the time indicated on the package, then drain it and cool it under running water.
2. In the meantime, prepare a sauce by sautéing a finely chopped onion in olive oil. Add the ground meat and let it brown until it is well cooked.
3. Add the peas and let them cook for about 5-10 minutes, then pour in the tomato purée, adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper and let it cook for another 15-20 minutes. If you like, you can add some basil to flavor the sauce.
4. Combine the rice with the sauce and mix it well to evenly distribute all the ingredients.
5. Take a baking dish and grease the bottom with a little oil, then pour in half of the seasoned rice.
6. Cut the mozzarella into cubes and distribute it over the rice in the dish, then cover with the remaining rice.
7. Sprinkle the surface with the grated Parmesan cheese and bake at 200 °C for about 20 minutes or until a golden crust forms on top.
8. Let it rest a few minutes before serving the baked rice hot.

Curiosity

Baked rice is often associated with Sundays or holidays in many Italian families, especially in the South. It can be enriched with various ingredients such as hard-boiled eggs, cold cuts, or different types of cheeses. A versatile and beloved dish for both adults and children that combines the convenience of oven cooking with the rich and enveloping flavors typical of Italian cuisine.