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Riso al Forno
Riso al Forno is a cherished Italian classic that embodies the heart and soul of home-cooked comfort food. This baked rice dish combines the creamy richness of mozzarella with the vibrant flavors of ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil, creating an irresistible medley that warms the heart. Traditionally hailing from the northern regions of Italy, Riso al Forno has graced family gatherings and festive occasions for generations. The delightful contrast of textures—with a crispy, golden cheese topping over tender, aromatic rice—makes each bite a moment of pure joy. Pair this dish with a fresh side salad or crusty garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- Arborio rice
- 1 cup
- Water
- 4 cups
- Salt
- 1 teaspoon (for boiling)
- Black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon
- Fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups, shredded (divided)
- Tomato sauce
- 2 cups
- Garlic
- 3 cloves, minced
- Onion
- 1 medium, chopped
- Olive oil
- 2 tablespoons
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and the Arborio rice. Cook until al dente, about 15 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Pour in the tomato sauce, stirring to combine. Allow it to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, the tomato sauce mixture, half of the shredded mozzarella, chopped basil, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir until everything is well incorporated.
- Transfer the rice mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining shredded mozzarella.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra basil if desired.
Tips
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce while it simmers.
- You can incorporate cooked vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers into the rice mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
- To enhance the richness, consider adding a splash of cream to the tomato sauce before combining it with the rice.
Dietary Information
Servings: 4 Dish Type: Main Course Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes Calories: 450 Fat: 20g Carbs: 50g Protein: 15g Sodium: 600mg Sugar: 5g
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