Surinamese Mixed Rice

Surinamese Mixed Rice Recipe - Vegetarian Food from Suriname

Region / culture: Suriname | Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Surinamese Mixed Rice is a flavorful and hearty dish that combines brown rice, yellow split beans, vegetables, and spices to create a delicious meal. This dish is a staple in Surinamese cuisine and is perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

History

Surinamese Mixed Rice has its roots in Surinamese cuisine, which is a fusion of African, Indian, Indonesian, Chinese, Dutch, and Javanese influences. This dish reflects the diverse cultural heritage of Suriname and is a popular comfort food in the country.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) brown rice
0.33 lb (150 g) yellow split beans
1.5 pt (710 ml) water
1 big onion, chopped
1 tomato, diced
2 tbsp of tomato paste
1 hot pepper
1 vegan bouillon cube (optional, but it adds to the "Surinamese" taste)
1 cup cubed pumpkin
1 cup coarse cut white cabbage
salt (optional)
black pepper

How to prepare

Cook the yellow split beans until they are partially done. Discard the cooking water.
Simmer the onion for a few minutes, then add the finely chopped tomato and the bouillon cube. Simmer for about five minutes.
If necessary, add a small amount of water.
Add the partially cooked split beans and the tomato paste. Also, add water.
Stir well and simmer for another five minutes.
Add the pumpkin and cook until it is partially done.
Taste the sauce and season with black pepper. The sauce should have a strong flavor.
Add the drained rice. The sauce level should be slightly above the rice. If needed, add some water. Taste the gravy again!
Stir well, let the sauce cook, and place cabbage and hot pepper on top. Set the heat to the lowest possible setting. (The pepper adds a special flavor.)
Simmer for approximately half an hour. Check if the rice is nearly done.
If necessary, sprinkle a small amount of hot water over the rice and cook for another five minutes. Remove the hot pepper from the pot and carefully stir the cabbage into the rice using a fork. Place the pepper back in the pot.
Simmer for another five minutes. The rice should be dry and flavorful.
Remove the pot from the stove, take off the lid, and let the rice sit untouched for five minutes.
Cut the hot pepper into very small pieces (using a fork and knife to avoid burning your hands).
Serve with cucumber, onions, and tomatoes in vinegar.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or carrots for additional color and flavor.
Substitute white rice for brown rice for a lighter version of the dish.
Add cooked shrimp or chicken for a protein boost.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to partially cook the yellow split beans before adding them to the dish to ensure they are tender.

- Adjust the amount of water based on the desired consistency of the rice.

- Taste the sauce throughout the cooking process and adjust the seasonings as needed to achieve a flavorful dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Surinamese Mixed Rice with a side of cucumber, onions, and tomatoes in vinegar for a refreshing and tangy contrast to the savory flavors of the dish.

Cooking Techniques

Simmer the ingredients slowly to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Stir the rice occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use green split peas instead of yellow split beans for a different texture.

- Substitute butternut squash for pumpkin for a sweeter flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the yellow split beans and chop the vegetables in advance to save time when cooking the dish. Store the prepped ingredients in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Surinamese Mixed Rice in a large serving bowl garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a side of plantains or fried plantains for a traditional Surinamese meal. A glass of iced tea or fruit punch complements the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of Surinamese Mixed Rice contains approximately 300-350 calories, making it a filling and satisfying meal option.

Carbohydrates

Surinamese Mixed Rice is a carbohydrate-rich dish due to the brown rice and yellow split beans. Carbohydrates provide energy for the body and are an essential part of a balanced diet.

Fats

This dish is low in fats, making it a healthy option for those looking to reduce their fat intake. The use of minimal oil in cooking helps keep the dish light and nutritious.

Proteins

Yellow split beans are a good source of plant-based protein in this dish. Protein is important for muscle growth and repair, making this dish a satisfying and nutritious option for vegetarians and vegans.

Vitamins and minerals

Surinamese Mixed Rice is packed with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables used in the dish, such as pumpkin, cabbage, onion, and tomato. These vegetables provide essential nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe is free from common allergens like dairy, nuts, and gluten, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary restrictions.

Summary

Surinamese Mixed Rice is a nutritious and balanced meal option that provides carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, and minerals in one delicious dish.

Summary

Surinamese Mixed Rice is a flavorful and nutritious dish that showcases the diverse cultural influences of Surinamese cuisine. Packed with vegetables, proteins, and carbohydrates, this dish is a satisfying and wholesome meal option for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my friend Maria, who had just returned from a trip to Suriname. She had brought back with her a small notebook filled with recipes she had collected during her travels. As she flipped through the pages, my eyes landed on a recipe for Surinamese Mixed Rice.

Maria explained that Surinamese Mixed Rice, also known as Nasi Goreng, is a popular dish in Suriname that is made with a combination of rice, vegetables, and protein. The recipe was simple yet packed with flavor, and I knew right away that I had to learn how to make it.

Over the years, I have always been drawn to new and exciting recipes from different cultures. My love for cooking started at a young age, watching my own grandmother in the kitchen as she whipped up delicious meals for our family. I learned the importance of using fresh ingredients and taking your time to prepare each dish with love and care.

As I studied the recipe for Surinamese Mixed Rice, I could already taste the blend of flavors in my mind. The combination of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and chili peppers promised to create a dish that was both savory and spicy, with a hint of sweetness from the vegetables.

I asked Maria if she could teach me how to make Surinamese Mixed Rice, and she happily agreed. We spent a whole afternoon in her kitchen, chopping vegetables, marinating the protein, and cooking the rice. As the fragrant aroma of the spices filled the air, I knew that this dish would become a staple in my own cooking repertoire.

As I took my first bite of the Surinamese Mixed Rice, I was transported to the streets of Paramaribo, where Maria had told me she had enjoyed this dish with her newfound friends. The flavors were bold and complex, with each ingredient complementing the others perfectly. I could taste the influence of the various cultures that had shaped Surinamese cuisine over the years.

After mastering the recipe, I shared it with my own family and friends, who all raved about the dish. I even brought it to potlucks and gatherings, where it quickly became a crowd favorite. I loved seeing the smiles on people's faces as they savored each bite of the Surinamese Mixed Rice.

As I continued to cook and experiment with different recipes, I always came back to Surinamese Mixed Rice as one of my go-to dishes. It was a reminder of the joy and connection that food can bring, even across different cultures and borders.

Looking back, I am grateful for that fateful day when I first saw the recipe for Surinamese Mixed Rice. It opened up a whole new world of flavors and experiences for me, and I will always cherish the memories of learning how to make this delicious dish from my dear friend Maria.

In the end, it's not just about the food itself, but the stories and memories that come with it. And for me, Surinamese Mixed Rice will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the power of sharing and enjoying good food with the ones we love.