Brown Rice and Wheat Berries

Brown Rice and Wheat Berries Recipe - Healthy and Flavorful Dish

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour and 50 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Brown rice and wheat berries are a nutritious and delicious combination that can be enjoyed as a side dish or a main course. This recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor, making it a great addition to any meal.

History

Brown rice and wheat berries have been staples in many cultures for centuries. Both grains are known for their health benefits and versatility in cooking. This recipe combines the nutty flavor of wheat berries with the chewy texture of brown rice for a satisfying dish that is sure to please.

Ingredients

2.25 cups of water
0.33 cups of wheat berries
0.33 cups of brown rice
1 tbsp of saute fluid (choose your favorite flavor)
0.25 cups of chopped scallion
0.25 tsp of salt
0.13 tsp of pepper

How to prepare

In a 2 qt (1.89 liter) pan, bring water to a boil. Add berries and return to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 1 hour. Stir in brown rice. Cover and simmer for an additional 50 minutes. In the last 5 minutes of cooking the rice, sauté the scallion until softened. Combine the sautéed scallion with the rice and wheat mixture, along with the spices. Note: The original recipe called for 2 tbsp of toasted pine nuts in 1 tbsp of butter before adding the scallions. I have omitted this step. I will input both variations into my recipe program and update if possible. The original recipe's health tip suggested omitting salt, using unsalted margarine as a substitute, and/or eliminating the nuts.

Variations

Add toasted pine nuts for extra crunch and flavor.
Substitute the sauté fluid with olive oil or butter for a different taste.
Add in your favorite herbs and spices for a unique twist on this classic dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to rinse the wheat berries and brown rice before cooking to remove any excess starch.

- Cooking the grains together in the same pot allows them to absorb each other's flavors, resulting in a more cohesive dish.

- Adding sautéed scallions and seasonings at the end of cooking enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

This dish can be served as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish, or enjoyed on its own as a light and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Cooking the wheat berries and brown rice together in the same pot allows them to absorb each other's flavors, resulting in a more cohesive dish. Be sure to simmer the grains until they are tender and fully cooked.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have wheat berries on hand, you can substitute with another whole grain such as farro or barley. You can also use white rice instead of brown rice for a different texture.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a pop of color and flavor. Serve in a decorative bowl or plate for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a variety of proteins such as grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this dish contains approximately 200 calories, making it a light and satisfying option for a meal or side dish.

Carbohydrates

Brown rice and wheat berries are both excellent sources of carbohydrates, providing sustained energy for your body. This dish is a great option for those looking to fuel their bodies with complex carbohydrates.

Fats

The addition of sauté fluid adds a small amount of healthy fats to this dish, which are essential for overall health and wellbeing.

Proteins

Both wheat berries and brown rice contain small amounts of protein, making this dish a good option for vegetarians or those looking to increase their protein intake.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and B vitamins. These nutrients are essential for overall health and wellbeing.

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat, which may be a common allergen for some individuals. Be sure to check for any allergies before preparing this dish.

Summary

Overall, this dish is a nutritious and delicious option for those looking to incorporate more whole grains into their diet. With a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals, this dish is a well-rounded option for any meal.

Summary

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by it. It was a simple dish, yet it seemed to be bursting with flavor and wholesome goodness. Brown rice and wheat berries – a combination I had never tried before, but one that I knew would become a staple in my kitchen.

I first learned how to make this recipe from my dear friend Margaret. Margaret was a wonderful cook, and she had a knack for creating dishes that were both delicious and nutritious. She explained to me that brown rice and wheat berries were a perfect pairing, as they complemented each other in both texture and flavor.

The process of making brown rice and wheat berries is simple, but it does require a bit of patience. The first step is to rinse the grains thoroughly to remove any debris or dust. Once they are clean, they are combined in a pot with water and brought to a boil. The heat is then reduced, and the grains are simmered until they are tender and cooked through.

While the grains are cooking, I like to prepare a simple dressing to flavor the dish. A combination of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs is all that is needed to enhance the natural nuttiness of the grains. Once the grains are cooked, they are tossed with the dressing and allowed to sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.

The result is a dish that is both hearty and satisfying. The chewiness of the wheat berries contrasts beautifully with the fluffiness of the brown rice, creating a dish that is both comforting and nourishing. I have made this recipe countless times since learning it from Margaret, and it has become a favorite among my family and friends.

Over the years, I have added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different herbs and spices to create new and exciting flavor combinations. I have also shared the recipe with others, passing on the knowledge that Margaret so generously shared with me.

One of my favorite memories involving this recipe is when I made it for my grandchildren for the first time. They were skeptical at first – brown rice and wheat berries were not exactly the most kid-friendly ingredients. But once they took their first bite, they were hooked. They loved the chewy texture of the wheat berries and the nutty flavor of the brown rice. It was a joy to see them enjoying a dish that had become so special to me.

As I reflect on the journey that led me to discover this recipe, I am grateful for all the people who have shared their knowledge and passion for cooking with me. From Margaret to my own mother, each person has played a role in shaping my culinary skills and inspiring me to create delicious and nourishing dishes.

I hope that this recipe will continue to bring joy and comfort to those who try it, just as it has done for me. Cooking is more than just a means of sustenance – it is a way to connect with others, to share stories and traditions, and to create lasting memories. And for that, I am truly grateful.