Rice Pie with Broccoli Rabe and Sausage
Category: Main Course
Servings: 4
This comforting and savory Rice Pie with Broccoli Rabe and Sausage combines the bold, earthy flavors of fresh broccoli rabe with the rich and savory taste of sausage, all held together by a creamy, aromatic rice filling. The addition of saffron gives it a delicate, golden hue, while the melting cheeses and breadcrumbs add a satisfying texture to each bite. Perfect for a cozy meal or a special occasion, this dish will surely impress with its blend of hearty ingredients and comforting flavors.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Broccoli Rabe | 200g |
| Sausage (Salamella) | 400g |
| Carnaroli Rice | 400g |
| Eggs | 210g |
| Grana Padano DOP | 30g |
| Fontina Cheese | 40g |
| Saffron | 1 sachet |
| Salt | to taste |
| Black Pepper | to taste |
| Nutmeg | to taste |
| Butter | 10g |
| Breadcrumbs | 40g |
| Grana Padano DOP (for topping) | 3g |
| Breadcrumbs (for topping) | 3g |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Broccoli Rabe:
Begin by washing and preparing the broccoli rabe. Remove the tough outer stems and cut the leaves into smaller pieces. Transfer them into a saucepan, adding enough water to cover the greens. Season with salt and cook over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until tender. -
-
Prepare the Sausage:
While the broccoli rabe is cooking, prepare the sausage. Using a sharp knife, slice the sausages lengthwise and remove the casings. Cut the sausage into small pieces. Heat a drizzle of oil in a separate pan over medium heat and sautรฉ the sausage pieces until they are browned and cooked through. Set aside. -
Cook the Rice:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the Carnaroli rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the rice and set aside. -
Flavor the Rice with Saffron:
While the rice is cooking, dissolve the saffron in a couple of tablespoons of hot water, allowing it to release its vibrant color and aroma. Set aside. -
Prepare the Cheese:
Cube the Fontina cheese and set it aside. Grate the Grana Padano DOP for the filling and also for the topping. -
Assemble the Dish:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, eggs, grated Grana Padano, black pepper, nutmeg, and the saffron water. Mix well to incorporate the saffron evenly throughout the rice. Stir in the cubed Fontina cheese. -
Prepare the Baking Dish:
Preheat your oven to 200ยฐC (392ยฐF) and grease a 22×20 cm (8.5×8 inches) baking dish with butter. Dust the bottom and sides of the dish with breadcrumbs to create a crisp coating. -
Layer the Rice Pie:
Pour half of the prepared rice mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Layer the cooked broccoli rabe over the rice, then top with the cooked sausage. Sprinkle the remaining rice mixture on top, smoothing the surface with a spoon. -
Add the Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle the top of the rice pie with breadcrumbs and additional grated Grana Padano DOP for a deliciously golden crust. -
Bake:
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and crisp. -
Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the rice pie from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This dish is best enjoyed warm, but it also makes for an excellent leftover meal.
Tips & Notes:
- Variations: Feel free to swap out the sausage for other types of meat, or use a vegetarian sausage for a lighter, meat-free option.
- Cheese Options: While Fontina and Grana Padano are perfect for this dish, other cheeses like mozzarella or Parmesan can be used as alternatives for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Serving Suggestions: This Rice Pie pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier dish, you can serve it alongside a tomato sauce or a tangy balsamic reduction.
This Rice Pie with Broccoli Rabe and Sausage makes for a cozy and filling meal that brings together hearty flavors and a satisfying texture. The combination of vegetables, sausage, and creamy rice makes it a dish thatโs sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this Italian-inspired recipe at your next dinner gathering or as a special comfort meal.
