Mauritian-style Casserole Rice

Ingredients

In this Mauritian adaptation of Arròs a la cassola, we incorporate Mauritian spices and flavors to create a unique fusion dish. The original Spanish recipe typically uses saffron as the main spice, while we substitute it with turmeric, cumin, coriander, and cinnamon to infuse the dish with Mauritian flair. Additionally, we incorporate local Mauritian vegetables and herbs, such as curry leaves and thyme, to enhance the flavors and add a touch of authenticity. We alse have the original recipe for Arròs a la cassola, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) basmati rice 2 cups (400g) basmati rice
• 1 lb (450g) chicken or seafood (shrimp, fish, or squid), diced 1 lb (450g) chicken or seafood (shrimp, fish, or squid), diced
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, diced 1 carrot, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup (150g) green peas 1 cup (150g) green peas
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon turmeric 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander 1 teaspoon coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 4 cups (950ml) chicken or vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) chicken or vegetable broth
• A handful of fresh thyme A handful of fresh thyme
• A handful of curry leaves A handful of curry leaves
• Juice of 1 lime Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 65g, 6g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside.
2. 2.
   In a large casserole dish, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until golden and fragrant.
3. 3.
   Add the diced chicken or seafood to the casserole dish and cook until browned on all sides.
4. 4.
   Stir in the diced carrot, bell pepper, green peas, and tomatoes. Cook for a few minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
5. 5.
   Add the turmeric, cumin, coriander, and cinnamon to the casserole dish. Stir well to coat the ingredients with the spices.
6. 6.
   Pour in the basmati rice and mix it with the other ingredients in the casserole dish.
7. 7.
   Add the chicken or vegetable broth, fresh thyme, and curry leaves to the casserole dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. 8.
   Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the casserole dish and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the flavors have melded together.
9. 9.
   Once the rice is cooked, remove the casserole dish from the heat. Squeeze the juice of one lime over the rice and gently fluff it with a fork.
10. 10.
    Allow the Mauritian-style Casserole Rice to rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs and toasted coconut, if desired.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Basmati rice — Rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch and achieve fluffy grains.
• Curry leaves — Gently crush the curry leaves before adding them to the dish to release their aromatic oils.
• Lime juice — Squeeze the lime just before adding it to the rice to ensure a fresh and tangy flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken or seafood with tofu or tempeh.
• Add a pinch of saffron threads for a touch of luxury and a nod to the original Spanish dish.
• Serve the Mauritian-style Casserole Rice with a side of pickled vegetables for added tanginess.
• Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of chili powder or adding fresh chili peppers.
• Leftovers can be enjoyed the next day and make for a delicious packed lunch.

Serving advice

Serve the Mauritian-style Casserole Rice hot, garnished with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of toasted coconut. Accompany it with a side of pickled vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Present the Mauritian-style Casserole Rice in a large, colorful casserole dish to showcase its vibrant ingredients. Garnish with sprigs of fresh thyme and a sprinkle of toasted coconut for an elegant touch. Serve it family-style, allowing everyone to help themselves and savor the enticing aromas.