Rice au Gratin

Indulge in a Creamy and Cheesy Rice au Gratin Supreme from France

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Rice au Gratin is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the creaminess of cheese with the subtle flavors of curry and rice. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or as a side dish for a special meal.

History

Rice au Gratin has its origins in French cuisine, where "au gratin" refers to a dish that is topped with cheese or breadcrumbs and then baked until golden and bubbly. This technique adds a rich and crispy texture to the dish, making it a favorite among food lovers around the world.

Ingredients

1 cup of hot cooked rice
0.5 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 tbsp of butter
0.13 tsp of curry powder
0.33 cup of bread crumbs

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Grease a baking dish.
Toss the rice with half of the cheese.
Spoon the rice into the baking dish and top with the remaining cheese.
Bake for 10 – 15 minutes or until the cheese melts.
Meanwhile, melt the butter and stir in the curry.
Add the bread crumbs and brown lightly.
Remove the rice from the oven and sprinkle with the curried crumbs.

Variations

Add in cooked vegetables such as broccoli or peas for added nutrition and flavor.
Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Swiss, for a unique twist on this classic dish.
For a spicy kick, add in some red pepper flakes or hot sauce.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use hot cooked rice for this recipe to ensure that the cheese melts evenly.

- You can customize this dish by adding in your favorite vegetables or proteins, such as cooked chicken or shrimp.

- For a more decadent version, you can use a combination of different cheeses, such as Gruyere or Parmesan.

Serving Suggestions

Rice au Gratin can be served as a side dish with roasted chicken or grilled fish. It pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a delicious Rice au Gratin is to ensure that the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown. Be sure to keep an eye on the dish while it is baking to prevent burning.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have cheddar cheese, you can use any other type of cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella or Swiss. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you have a gluten intolerance.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Rice au Gratin ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake it. Simply cover the dish with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Rice au Gratin in individual ramekins for an elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Rice au Gratin pairs well with a crisp white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with a sparkling water infused with lemon or cucumber.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Rice au Gratin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the dish in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Rice au Gratin contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Rice au Gratin contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Rice au Gratin contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Rice au Gratin contains approximately 8 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Rice au Gratin is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese and butter) and gluten (breadcrumbs).

Summary

Rice au Gratin is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious option for a meal.

Summary

Rice au Gratin is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or as a side dish for a special meal. With its creamy cheese, subtle curry flavors, and crispy breadcrumbs, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my mother. We were visiting a dear family friend in a small village in France, and she invited us over for dinner one evening.

As we sat down at her cozy dining table, the aroma of the food filled the air and my mouth watered in anticipation. The first dish she served was a heavenly creation called Rice au Gratin. It was a creamy and cheesy rice casserole that melted in my mouth with each bite. I had never tasted anything quite like it before, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

After dinner, I eagerly asked our friend for the recipe. She smiled warmly and pulled out an old, stained piece of paper from her recipe book. She handed it to me and told me that it had been passed down through generations in her family. I clutched the paper in my hands, feeling a sense of excitement and gratitude for the gift she had given me.

When we returned home, I immediately set to work in the kitchen, determined to recreate the magic of that Rice au Gratin. I gathered all the ingredients listed on the recipe – rice, butter, flour, milk, cheese, and seasonings – and began following the instructions carefully.

I sautéed the rice in butter until it was golden brown, then added the flour to make a roux. Slowly, I poured in the milk, stirring constantly until it thickened into a creamy sauce. I added a generous amount of cheese and seasonings, then mixed in the cooked rice until it was well-coated in the delicious mixture.

I poured the rice into a baking dish and sprinkled more cheese on top before popping it into the oven to bake. The smell that wafted through the kitchen was heavenly – a perfect blend of cheese, butter, and spices that made my stomach rumble with anticipation.

As I pulled the dish out of the oven, the Rice au Gratin was golden brown and bubbling with cheesy goodness. I couldn't wait to dig in and taste the fruits of my labor. With each bite, memories of that evening in France flooded back to me – the warmth of the dining room, the laughter of good friends, and the delicious flavors that lingered on my tongue.

Since that day, Rice au Gratin has become a staple in my kitchen. I have made it for countless family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday dinners. Each time I prepare it, I am reminded of the generosity of our friend in France and the joy that good food can bring to those we love.

I have since shared the recipe with my own children and grandchildren, passing down the tradition of Rice au Gratin to future generations. I hope that they will cherish this dish as much as I do, and that it will bring them as much joy and comfort as it has brought me over the years.

As I sit here, reminiscing about that fateful evening so long ago, I am filled with gratitude for the memories and flavors that have enriched my life. The recipe for Rice au Gratin will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of good food to bring people together and create lasting connections. And for that, I am eternally grateful.