Rice-Nut Loaf

Rice-Nut Loaf Recipe: Vegetarian Dish from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 50-60 minutes | Servings: 6-8 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Rice-Nut Loaf is a delicious and hearty vegetarian dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Packed with nutritious ingredients like brown rice, cheese, nuts, and vegetables, this loaf is not only tasty but also good for you.

History

The Rice-Nut Loaf recipe has been around for decades and is a popular choice for vegetarians and those looking for a meatless meal option. It is a versatile dish that can be customized with different ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

3 cups cooked brown rice
2 cups (8 oz / 227 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
4 eggs, lightly beaten
1 medium onion, chopped
1 cup shredded carrots
0.5 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
0.25 cup chopped walnuts
0.25 cup chopped sunflower kernels
0.25 cup sesame seeds
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 tsp ground black pepper
1 x 16 oz (454 g) jar spaghetti sauce (optional)

How to prepare

Combine rice, cheese, eggs, onion, carrots, breadcrumbs, walnuts, sunflower kernels, sesame seeds, salt, and pepper. Pack the mixture into a greased 9-inch loaf pan.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 50 to 60 minutes until firm.
Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then unmold and slice.
If desired, serve with heated spaghetti sauce.

Variations

Add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the loaf mixture.
Substitute different types of cheese like mozzarella or feta for a different flavor profile.
Use different nuts like almonds or pecans for added crunch and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the brown rice according to package instructions before adding it to the loaf mixture.

- You can customize the ingredients in this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or nuts.

- For a crispy top, broil the loaf for a few minutes after baking.

- Serve the loaf with a side of salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Rice-Nut Loaf with a side of salad, roasted vegetables, or a fresh fruit salad for a complete and balanced meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Use white rice or quinoa instead of brown rice.

- Substitute cheddar cheese with Swiss or Gouda cheese.

- Use breadcrumbs or crushed crackers instead of Italian-style breadcrumbs.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Rice-Nut Loaf mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This is a great time-saving tip for busy weeknights.

Presentation Ideas

Slice the Rice-Nut Loaf and arrange it on a platter with a drizzle of spaghetti sauce on top for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or microgreens for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Rice-Nut Loaf with a glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of the Rice-Nut Loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Rice-Nut Loaf contains approximately 350 calories. This dish is a satisfying and filling meal option that is perfect for lunch or dinner.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Rice-Nut Loaf contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Fats

Each serving of Rice-Nut Loaf contains approximately 20 grams of fat. The fats in this dish come from the cheese, nuts, and seeds, which provide essential nutrients and add flavor to the dish.

Proteins

Each serving of Rice-Nut Loaf contains approximately 15 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body and can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Vitamins and minerals

Rice-Nut Loaf is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron. These nutrients are important for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese), eggs, nuts (walnuts), and seeds (sunflower kernels, sesame seeds). Please be mindful of any allergies or dietary restrictions when preparing and serving this dish.

Summary

Rice-Nut Loaf is a nutritious and delicious vegetarian dish that is packed with essential nutrients like carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a satisfying meal option that is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.

Summary

Rice-Nut Loaf is a flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish that is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. Packed with wholesome ingredients like brown rice, cheese, nuts, and vegetables, this loaf is a satisfying and delicious meal option. Enjoy it with your favorite side dishes and pair it with a glass of wine for a complete dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was a warm summer day, many years ago, when I stumbled upon the recipe for Rice-Nut Loaf. I was visiting my dear friend Martha, who was known for her delicious home-cooked meals. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the enticing aroma of this unique dish baking in the oven.

Martha had a twinkle in her eye as she pulled the golden loaf out of the oven and placed it on the table in front of me. She said, "I have a special treat for you today, my dear. It's a recipe that has been passed down in my family for generations. I know you love trying new dishes, so I thought you might enjoy this one."

I eagerly took a bite of the Rice-Nut Loaf and was instantly hooked. The combination of tender rice, crunchy nuts, and savory seasonings was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. I asked Martha for the recipe, and she graciously shared it with me.

As I sat down to enjoy my meal, Martha regaled me with the story of how she had learned to make Rice-Nut Loaf. She said that her grandmother had first made the dish for her when she was a little girl, and she had been making it ever since. The recipe had been handed down through the generations, with each family member adding their own twist to it.

Martha's version of Rice-Nut Loaf was a simple one, made with just a few ingredients that were readily available in her pantry. She cooked the rice until it was tender, then mixed in chopped nuts, onions, garlic, and a blend of herbs and spices. The mixture was shaped into a loaf and baked until golden brown and delicious.

I was so inspired by Martha's story that I knew I had to make Rice-Nut Loaf for my own family. I carefully copied down the recipe and returned home to give it a try. The first time I made it, my family was skeptical. They were used to more traditional meatloaf recipes and were unsure about the idea of a vegetarian version.

But as soon as they took their first bite, their doubts melted away. The Rice-Nut Loaf was a hit with everyone, even the pickiest eaters in the family. They loved the unique combination of flavors and textures, and it quickly became a regular feature on our dinner table.

Over the years, I have made Rice-Nut Loaf countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my family's tastes. I have added different types of nuts, experimented with various herbs and spices, and even tried different grains in place of rice. Each time I make it, I think of Martha and the day she introduced me to this wonderful dish.

Now, whenever I make Rice-Nut Loaf, I feel a connection to all the generations of cooks who have come before me. I think about the love and care that went into perfecting this recipe over the years, and I am grateful for the opportunity to pass it on to my own family.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a new recipe to try, I highly recommend giving Rice-Nut Loaf a chance. It may not be the most traditional dish, but it is certainly one that is filled with history, tradition, and most importantly, love. And who knows, maybe one day you'll be passing it down to your own grandchildren, just like I have.