Baked Rice and Franks

Baked Rice and Franks Recipe from USA with Beef Broth and Hot Pepper Sauce

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Baked Rice and Franks is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the simplicity of cooked rice with the savory taste of frankfurters, all baked to perfection with a blend of vegetables, cheese, and a flavorful sauce. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a satisfying meal that is both easy to prepare and delicious. It's a versatile dish that can be served as a main course for family dinners, potlucks, or any casual gathering.

History

The recipe for Baked Rice and Franks has its roots in the mid-20th century, a time when home cooks were looking for simple, budget-friendly meals that could feed a family. The use of frankfurters and rice as main ingredients reflects the era's preference for accessible, shelf-stable foods. Over the years, this dish has evolved, with variations incorporating different ingredients according to personal tastes and regional preferences. Despite these changes, the core concept of a baked rice and frankfurter casserole has remained a beloved comfort food for many.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice
1 12 oz (340 g) package frankfurters, thinly sliced
1 cup finely chopped onion, divided
1 cup sliced celery
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
2 eggs, well beaten
0.33 cup mayonnaise
1 tsp prepared mustard
1 tsp salt
0.25 tsp ground black pepper
1 8 oz (227 g) can tomato sauce
0.5 cup chopped green bell pepper
0.75 cup beef broth
2 to 3 drops hot pepper sauce

How to prepare

Combine 1 cup of rice, frankfurters, 0.5 cup of onion, celery, and cheese.
Blend eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper. Pour over the rice mixture and mix well.
Spoon the mixture into a buttered shallow baking dish. Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 30 minutes or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
Serve with a sauce made by combining the remaining 0.5 cup of onion, tomato sauce, green pepper, broth, and pepper sauce. Simmer for 10 minutes or until slightly thickened.

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Substitute frankfurters with a plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Spicy Version: Add more hot pepper sauce or include diced jalapeños in the sauce for an extra kick.
Cheesy Delight: Mix in an additional half cup of cheese into the rice mixture and sprinkle some on top before baking for a cheesier crust.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results for your Baked Rice and Franks, consider the following tips:

- Use day-old rice for a firmer texture that holds up well in the casserole.

- Sauté the onions and celery before adding them to the mix for a sweeter, more mellow flavor.

- Slice the frankfurters thinly to ensure they distribute evenly throughout the dish.

- For a creamier texture, you can add a bit more mayonnaise or a dollop of sour cream.

- Don't skip the hot pepper sauce; it adds a nice kick that balances the richness of the cheese and frankfurters.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Baked Rice and Franks hot, accompanied by a side salad or steamed vegetables to add freshness and balance to the meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can also enhance the dish's flavors.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the primary cooking technique used in this recipe, creating a delightful texture contrast between the creamy interior and the slightly crispy top. Sautéing the vegetables before adding them to the mix can enhance their flavors and textures.

Ingredient Substitutions

Rice: Brown rice or quinoa can be used instead of white rice for added fiber.

- Frankfurters: Smoked sausage or chorizo can be substituted for a different flavor profile.

- Mayonnaise: Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative that still provides creaminess.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the rice and vegetable mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add the eggs, mayonnaise, and mustard, then proceed with the baking instructions.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the baked dish in a colorful casserole dish for a rustic look. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine or a cold beer can complement the richness of the dish. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling lemonade or iced tea would be refreshing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until thoroughly warmed. Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to prevent drying out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Baked Rice and Franks contains approximately 350 calories. The calories are derived from a combination of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, making it a filling meal option.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively high in carbohydrates, primarily due to the rice and tomato sauce. A serving of Baked Rice and Franks contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The carbohydrates come from the rice, providing energy, and the vegetables, which offer dietary fiber.

Fats

Baked Rice and Franks is moderately high in fats, with a serving containing about 20 grams of fat. The fats come from the frankfurters, cheese, and mayonnaise, contributing to the dish's creamy texture and rich flavor. Using low-fat cheese and mayonnaise can reduce the fat content.

Proteins

This dish is a good source of protein, with each serving providing approximately 15 grams of protein. The protein comes from the eggs and frankfurters, essential for muscle repair and growth.

Vitamins and minerals

Baked Rice and Franks provides a variety of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C from the green bell peppers, Vitamin A from the tomato sauce, and calcium from the cheese. It also contains iron from the beef broth and frankfurters.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include eggs, dairy (cheese), and gluten (frankfurters may contain gluten). Individuals with food allergies should check the labels of pre-packaged ingredients or seek suitable substitutes.

Summary

Overall, Baked Rice and Franks is a balanced dish that provides carbohydrates for energy, proteins for muscle maintenance, and fats for flavor and satiety. It also offers a range of vitamins and minerals. However, those monitoring their fat intake or with specific dietary restrictions should consider appropriate adjustments.

Summary

Baked Rice and Franks is a versatile, comforting dish that combines simple ingredients into a flavorful meal. With its rich history and the ability to adapt to various tastes and dietary needs, it's a recipe that can bring warmth and satisfaction to any table. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or explore variations, it's sure to become a cherished addition to your cooking repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. Baked rice and franks - a simple, yet comforting dish that reminded me of my childhood. I remember my own grandmother making something similar when I was a young girl, and the aroma of the dish baking in the oven would fill the entire house with warmth and nostalgia.

I had been visiting a friend of mine, Mrs. Jenkins, who was known in our small town for her delicious home-cooked meals. As we sat in her cozy kitchen, sipping tea and sharing stories, she casually mentioned the recipe for baked rice and franks. She described it as an easy and satisfying dish that was perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

Mrs. Jenkins had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. She explained that it was a versatile dish that could be customized with different spices, vegetables, and meats. Intrigued by the simplicity of the recipe, I asked Mrs. Jenkins if she would be willing to show me how to make it.

The following week, I found myself in Mrs. Jenkins' kitchen once again, eagerly watching as she gathered the ingredients for the dish. She started by cooking the rice in a pot on the stove, adding in some diced onions and bell peppers for flavor. As the rice simmered, she sliced up some plump franks and arranged them on top of the rice in a baking dish.

Next, Mrs. Jenkins whipped up a quick sauce using tomato paste, broth, and a blend of spices. She poured the sauce over the rice and franks, covering the dish with foil before placing it in the oven to bake. As the aroma of the dish began to waft through the kitchen, I could hardly contain my excitement.

After about an hour, Mrs. Jenkins pulled the dish out of the oven, the rice fluffy and the franks browned and sizzling. She scooped out a generous portion onto a plate for me to try, and I eagerly dug in. The flavors were rich and comforting, the rice perfectly cooked, and the franks added a delicious smokiness to the dish.

As I savored each bite, Mrs. Jenkins smiled at me knowingly. "Now you know the secret to a good baked rice and franks," she said. "It's all about using simple ingredients and letting them shine through in the dish."

I thanked Mrs. Jenkins profusely for sharing her recipe with me, promising to make it for my own family soon. As I left her house that day, I felt a sense of satisfaction and contentment, knowing that I had added another cherished recipe to my collection.

Over the years, I have made baked rice and franks countless times, adapting the recipe to suit my family's tastes and preferences. Sometimes I add in extra vegetables or switch out the type of meat used. But no matter how I make it, the dish always brings back memories of Mrs. Jenkins' kitchen and the warm, comforting flavors that filled the air that day.

I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of baked rice and franks to the next generation. And as I watch my own grandchildren eagerly dig into their plates of this simple yet satisfying dish, I can't help but feel grateful for the culinary lessons I have learned over the years.

In the end, it's not just about the food itself, but the memories and stories that come along with it. And for me, baked rice and franks will always be a reminder of the bonds that are created and strengthened over a shared meal.