Creamy Mushroom Rice is a comforting and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for pairing with a variety of meals. The combination of earthy mushrooms, creamy texture, and the aromatic flavor of garlic and onion make it a delicious choice for any occasion. Whether served alongside roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or even on its own, this rice dish is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until softened.
- Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown.
- Stir in the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked through.
- Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Add protein: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even bacon for a heartier dish.
- Use different mushrooms: Experiment with a variety of mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, or portobello for different textures and flavors.
- Vegan version: Use coconut cream or cashew cream as a substitute for heavy cream, and vegetable broth for a vegan-friendly option.
- Herb variations: Add thyme, rosemary, or sage to complement the mushrooms for a more complex flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover creamy mushroom rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the rice if it has become too thick.
10 FAQs
- Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and the amount of broth, as brown rice takes longer to cook.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the rice ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it before serving.
- Can I use a different type of cream? Yes, you can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream substitute if you prefer a lighter or dairy-free version.
- What other vegetables can I add? You can add peas, spinach, or even roasted bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
- Can I make this dish spicier? Yes, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give it a spicy kick.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth.
- Can I use frozen mushrooms? While fresh mushrooms are preferred for texture, frozen mushrooms can be used. Be sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding them to the recipe.
- How do I know when the rice is done? The rice is done when all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. If it’s still undercooked, add a little more broth and cook for a few more minutes.
- Can I add cheese to this dish? Yes, adding grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese can create an even creamier texture and more savory flavor.
- Can I make this dish spicy? Yes, you can add chili flakes, jalapeños, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give the dish some heat.
Conclusion
Creamy Mushroom Rice is a simple yet delicious side dish that elevates any meal. With its rich, comforting texture and earthy flavors from the mushrooms, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs perfectly with a wide variety of proteins. Easy to make and customizable to your tastes, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.