Aromanian-inspired Rice Porridge with Vegetables

Ingredients

While the original Chinese Chao hancai is a stir-fried dish, this Aromanian adaptation transforms it into a comforting rice porridge. The Aromanian version focuses on slow-cooking the rice with vegetables and spices, resulting in a creamy and hearty porridge. The flavors are also adjusted to suit Aromanian cuisine, incorporating traditional spices and ingredients. We alse have the original recipe for Chao hancai, so you can check it out.

• 1 cup (200g) rice 1 cup (200g) rice
• 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced 2 carrots, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup (150g) green peas 1 cup (150g) green peas
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 2g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 52g, 6g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, combine the rice and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the mixture thickens.
3. 3.
   In a separate pan, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
4. 4.
   Add the carrots, bell pepper, zucchini, and green peas to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
5. 5.
   Stir in the paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. 6.
   Transfer the cooked vegetables to the pot with the rice porridge. Stir well to combine.
7. 7.
   Simmer the porridge for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together.
8. 8.
   Serve the Aromanian-inspired rice porridge hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Rice — Rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch and ensure a fluffy texture.
• Vegetables — Feel free to customize the vegetable selection based on seasonal availability and personal preference. You can add or substitute with vegetables like corn, green beans, or mushrooms for variety.

Tips & Tricks

• For a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the cooked rice and vegetables before adding them back to the pot.
• Adjust the spices according to your taste preferences. You can add a pinch of chili flakes for a hint of spiciness.
• Serve the rice porridge with a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing twist.

Serving advice

Serve the Aromanian-inspired rice porridge as a comforting main dish for lunch or dinner. It pairs well with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad.

Presentation advice

Garnish the rice porridge with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add a pop of color. Serve it in individual bowls, allowing the vibrant vegetables to shine through the creamy base.