Christmas Rice
A delightful blend of fluffy rice, vibrant peas, and tender carrots, making it a perfect holiday side dish or main course.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups rice (your choice; long-grain is a classic)
- 1 cup carrots, diced adds a lovely sweetness
- 1 cup peas fresh or frozen, for vibrant color
- 1 onion chopped provides a savory base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
- 4 cups vegetable broth enhances the flavor
- Salt and pepper to taste to round out the flavors
- Optional: fresh herbs for garnish like parsley or thyme
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. Dice the onion and carrots, and measure out the rice and peas.
Cooking the Base
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté it until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Adding Carrots
- Stir in the diced carrots and cook for about 4-5 minutes until they begin to soften.
Introducing the Rice
- Add the rice to the pot and stir well to coat it with the oil and vegetables. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Pouring in the Broth
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low.
Simmering
- Cover the pot and let the rice simmer for about 18-20 minutes, checking occasionally.
Adding Peas
- About five minutes before the rice is done, stir in the peas.
Seasoning
- Once the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed, season with salt and pepper to taste.
Fluffing and Garnishing
- Remove from heat and fluff the rice gently with a fork. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
Best served warm, this dish is perfect for holiday gatherings. Can be prepared a day ahead and reheated. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days.