Sure! Here’s the detailed recipe for a delicious Ham & Veggie Rice Pilaf that you can easily prepare and enjoy with your loved ones. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something quick, healthy, and flavorful. Let’s dive into the culinary adventure!
Ham & Veggie Rice Pilaf 🍲
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Serves: 6-8
Ingredients:
- 1 onion
- 1 green pepper
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 6-8 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp margarine
- 1 1/2 cups long grain rice
- 4 beef bouillon cubes
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 3 cups water
Instructions:
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Prepare the Ingredients: Start by dicing the onion, green pepper, and cooked ham. Mince the garlic cloves finely. Gather all the other ingredients and place them within reach on your kitchen counter.
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Sauté the Veggies and Ham: In a large saucepan, melt the butter and margarine over medium heat. Add the diced onion, green pepper, mushrooms, minced garlic, and diced ham to the saucepan. Sauté the mixture until the vegetables are tender but not browned. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
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Add the Rice: Once the vegetables and ham are tender, pour the long grain rice into the saucepan with the sautéed mixture. Let the rice lightly brown for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to coat the rice evenly with the flavors of the vegetables and ham.
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Combine with Water and Seasonings: Pour in the water, breaking up the beef bouillon cubes and adding them to the mixture. Sprinkle in the black pepper for an added kick of flavor. Stir everything together until well combined.
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Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer.
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Simmer Until Tender: Cover the saucepan with a lid and let the rice simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Avoid the temptation to lift the lid while the rice is cooking, as this will release steam and may affect the cooking time.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the rice is cooked to perfection, remove the saucepan from the heat and fluff the rice with a fork. Serve the Ham & Veggie Rice Pilaf hot as a satisfying one-dish meal or as a flavorful side dish to complement your favorite main course.
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Garnish and Customize: Feel free to garnish your rice pilaf with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. You can also customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste preferences.
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Store Any Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can easily reheat the rice pilaf in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick and convenient meal option.
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Share and Enjoy: Gather your family and friends around the table and enjoy this flavorful Ham & Veggie Rice Pilaf together. Share stories, laughter, and good food as you create cherished memories around the dining table.
Now, you’re ready to embark on a culinary journey with this delicious Ham & Veggie Rice Pilaf recipe. Bon appétit! 🍽️
