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One-pot rice

17/11/2023

One-pot rice meals are a practical and tasty solution for a complete meal with ease and minimal washing up. I propose a simple and quick Italian variation, with ingredients that lend themselves to even cooking.

Ingredients

  • 320 grams of long grain rice or Arborio rice for a creamier version
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, chopped
  • 400 grams of tomato pulp or peeled tomatoes
  • 1 liter of vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 150 grams of fresh or frozen peas
  • 1 zucchini, cut into half-moons
  • 100 grams of champignon mushrooms, sliced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Grated cheese such as Parmesan or Pecorino (optional)
  • Fresh aromatic herbs like basil or parsley, chopped (optional)

Preparation

  1. In a large sauté pan with high sides or a casserole dish, heat a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent.
  2. Add the chopped garlic and sauté for another minute, being careful not to burn it.
  3. Pour the rice into the pan and toast it for a couple of minutes, until it becomes slightly translucent, stirring continuously.
  4. Add the diced bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and peas, then sauté everything for a minute.
  5. Pour in the tomato pulp and stir. Then gradually add the hot broth, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Cook on medium-low heat with a lid until the rice is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed, about 18-20 minutes.
  7. If you wish, before serving, sprinkle the dish with grated cheese and chopped fresh aromatic herbs.
  8. Make sure to let your one-pot rice rest for a few minutes before serving it.

Curiosity

A one-pot dish is extremely practical for hectic day-to-day life as it allows you to have a complete and tasty meal with just one kitchen utensil, thus minimizing mess and saving time in preparation and post-meal clean-up. The key to perfect success lies in adding liquids a little at a time and in the correct sequence of ingredient insertion to ensure even cooking.

One-pot rice