Wilted Chard with Rice

Wilted Chard with Rice Recipe from Switzerland

Region / culture: Switzerland | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Wilted Chard with Rice is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the earthy flavors of swiss chard with the hearty texture of brown rice. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal that the whole family will love.

History

Wilted Chard with Rice is a modern twist on traditional Swiss chard recipes that have been enjoyed for centuries. Swiss chard is a leafy green vegetable that is packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a popular choice for healthy eating.

Ingredients

1 cup cooked brown rice
1 lb (454 g) ground sirloin, browned
1 large shallot, small diced
1 clove garlic, minced
1 package swiss chard, cleaned and chopped
1 package grape tomatoes, halved (optional)
salt and pepper, to taste
plain yogurt, for serving

How to prepare

Cook the rice according to the package instructions and set it aside.
Brown the sirloin and remove it from the pan, removing all the fat except for 1 tbsp
Add the diced shallot and 1 clove of garlic, sauté until they become opaque.
Add the swiss chard, cover, and let it steam for 1-2 minutes.
Add the browned sirloin.
Toss with grape tomatoes, if using.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the mixture over the cooked rice and top it with plain yogurt.

Variations

Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground sirloin for a lighter option.
Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top of the dish for extra flavor.
Mix in cooked quinoa or couscous instead of brown rice for a different texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to thoroughly clean and chop the swiss chard before cooking to remove any dirt or debris.

- Browning the sirloin before adding it to the dish will enhance the flavor and texture of the meat.

- Adding grape tomatoes to the dish will add a burst of freshness and color.

- Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Wilted Chard with Rice with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the shallot and garlic until fragrant to release their flavors.

- Steam the swiss chard to wilt it without losing its vibrant color and nutrients.

- Toss the ingredients together gently to combine them without breaking up the rice.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of rice or grain in place of brown rice.

- Swap out the swiss chard for spinach or kale.

- Use Greek yogurt or sour cream instead of plain yogurt for a tangy finish.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the brown rice and brown the sirloin in advance to save time when making this dish.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Wilted Chard with Rice in individual bowls topped with a dollop of plain yogurt for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Wilted Chard with Rice with a glass of red wine or a refreshing iced tea for a satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Wilted Chard with Rice 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 Wilted Chard with Rice contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Wilted Chard with Rice contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Wilted Chard with Rice contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Wilted Chard with Rice contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Wilted Chard with Rice is a rich source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as iron and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (plain yogurt) and meat (ground sirloin), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Wilted Chard with Rice is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, as well as essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Wilted Chard with Rice is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and protein, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Wilted Chard with Rice. It was a warm summer day, and I had just finished my morning chores in the garden. As I was gathering some fresh chard for dinner, I heard a voice calling out to me from across the fence.

It was my neighbor, Mrs. Jenkins, a sweet old lady with a twinkle in her eye. She had lived in the neighborhood for as long as I could remember, and was known for her delicious home-cooked meals. She beckoned me over with a smile and handed me a small bundle of chard from her own garden.

"Here, dear, I thought you might like to try this recipe for wilted chard with rice. It's a family favorite," she said, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

I thanked her profusely and made my way back to the kitchen, eager to give the recipe a try. As I began to cook, the sweet aroma of sautéed onions and garlic filled the air, blending perfectly with the earthy scent of the chard. I added some cooked rice and a splash of vinegar, letting the flavors meld together into a harmonious dish.

When it was finally ready, I took a hesitant bite, unsure of what to expect. But as soon as the flavors hit my tongue, I was hooked. The tender chard combined with the savory rice and tangy vinegar created a perfect balance of flavors that danced on my taste buds.

I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen. Over the years, I made it countless times, tweaking and perfecting it to suit my own tastes. Each time I cooked it, I couldn't help but think of Mrs. Jenkins and the gift she had given me that day.

As I grew older, I continued to share the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of wilted chard with rice to the next generation. It became a symbol of warmth and comfort, a reminder of the simple pleasures of home-cooked meals shared with loved ones.

And now, as I stand in my kitchen, preparing this dish once again, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for all the recipes and memories that have shaped me into the cook I am today. Each one tells a story, a piece of my past woven into the fabric of my present.

So as I take that first bite of wilted chard with rice, I savor not just the flavors, but the memories that come flooding back. And I can't help but smile, knowing that this recipe will live on for generations to come, a legacy of love and tradition that will never fade.