Gratinated Rice with Vegetables (Riso Gratinato alle Verdure)
Category: Main Dishes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Brown rice | 320g |
| Onion | ½ |
| Fresh chili pepper | 1 |
| Fresh ginger | 30g |
| Savoy cabbage (Verza) | 300g |
| Carrots | 2 |
| Button mushrooms (Champignon) | 200g |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Smoked cheese (Scamorza/Provola) | 180g |
| Tomatoes | 2 |
| Soy sauce | 8 tbsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Grana Padano DOP (grated) | To taste |
Instructions:
-
Prep the Vegetables:
Begin by preparing a large wok that will accommodate the rice and all the vegetables. Heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat and add the finely chopped onion. Sauté until it becomes translucent, but make sure it doesn’t brown. -
-
Add the Heat and Flavor:
Once the onion is softened, incorporate the finely chopped fresh chili pepper. Peel the ginger root and grate it directly into the wok, allowing it to infuse the onion and chili mixture with its spicy warmth. -
Cook the Vegetables:
Now, add the vegetables to the wok, starting with the carrots, as they take a little longer to cook. Gradually add the other vegetables (savoy cabbage, mushrooms) one by one, stirring each time. Drizzle in two tablespoons of soy sauce for added depth of flavor and let the vegetables cook, absorbing the seasoning. -
Assemble the Gratin:
Once all the vegetables are tender, transfer them into a large baking dish. Set the vegetable mixture aside while you prepare the rice. (To cook the rice, follow package instructions for brown rice, ensuring it is fully cooked but not overly soft.) -
Layer the Dish:
Spoon the cooked rice into the baking dish with the vegetables. Toss them together so that the rice is well coated with the veggie mixture. Then, grate some Grana Padano DOP cheese over the top for a nice, creamy texture once melted. -
Gratinate the Rice:
Place the baking dish under a preheated grill or broiler on a medium-high setting. If needed, drizzle a little water or vegetable broth over the top of the rice to ensure a crisp, golden-brown crust forms as it grills. -
Serve:
Once the rice is beautifully gratinated, remove it from the grill and allow it to cool slightly before serving. The dish is best enjoyed warm, with the cheese and vegetables harmonizing in perfect flavor.
This gratinated rice with vegetables is a hearty and satisfying meal that brings together a symphony of fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, and the richness of melted cheese. Perfect for a cozy dinner or when entertaining guests, this dish offers a healthy yet indulgent option for those seeking comfort food with a twist.
