Sure, let’s delve into the delightful world of Salmon and Rice Casserole! 🍲 This recipe is not only quick and easy but also bursts with flavors, thanks to the addition of curry powder. Imagine a creamy, savory dish that’s comforting and satisfying, all in one bite. Originally discovered in a 1972 publication called Family Meal Planning, this timeless recipe has stood the test of time and continues to delight generations with its simplicity and taste.
Here’s a breakdown of the culinary journey you’re about to embark on:
Salmon and Rice Casserole
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons margarine
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups 1% low-fat milk
- 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cans (6 ounces each) salmon, drained and flaked
- 1 1/2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) to preheat while you prepare the casserole.
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Grease Casserole Dish: Take a moment to grease a suitable casserole dish, ensuring that your delicious creation won’t stick.
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Prepare Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the margarine over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and salt, stirring constantly for about a minute to form a smooth roux.
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Thicken Sauce: Remove the saucepan from heat. Gradually pour in the low-fat milk while stirring continuously to avoid any lumps. Return the saucepan to heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
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Infuse Flavor: Now, it’s time to add depth to your sauce. Stir in the curry powder and Worcestershire sauce, infusing the mixture with aromatic spices and savory goodness.
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Incorporate Salmon: Break apart the canned salmon into bite-sized chunks and gently fold them into the sauce, ensuring that every morsel is coated with flavor.
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Add Rice: Mix in the cooked rice, combining it evenly with the creamy salmon sauce to create a hearty base for your casserole.
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Assemble Casserole: Transfer the salmon and rice mixture into the greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure even cooking and distribution of flavors.
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Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of the casserole, adding a delightful layer of gooey goodness that will melt to perfection in the oven.
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Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for approximately 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked to perfection, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Scoop generous portions onto plates, savoring the creamy texture and rich flavors with each bite.
There you have it – a tantalizing Salmon and Rice Casserole that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal. With its simple preparation and irresistible taste, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy! 🍽️
