Sicilian-style Hén Rice

Ingredients

In this Sicilian adaptation of Cơm hến, the traditional Vietnamese dish, we incorporate Sicilian flavors and ingredients to create a unique fusion. The original dish typically includes ingredients like rice, baby clams, peanuts, and herbs. In the Sicilian version, we replace the peanuts with a variety of fresh seafood, such as clams, mussels, and shrimp. The broth is infused with Sicilian herbs like oregano and basil, and the dish is finished with a squeeze of tangy lemon juice, giving it a distinct Mediterranean twist. We alse have the original recipe for Cơm hến, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) Arborio rice 2 cups (400g) Arborio rice
• 1 lb (450g) fresh clams 1 lb (450g) fresh clams
• 1 lb (450g) fresh mussels 1 lb (450g) fresh mussels
• 1 lb (450g) fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined 1 lb (450g) fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup (240ml) white wine 1 cup (240ml) white wine
• 4 cups (960ml) fish or vegetable broth 4 cups (960ml) fish or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Juice of 1 lemon Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 70g, 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the clams and mussels under cold water to remove any grit or sand. Discard any open shells that do not close when tapped.
2. 2.
   In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the Arborio rice to the pot and stir well to coat the grains with the onion and garlic mixture.
4. 4.
   Pour in the white wine and cook until it has evaporated.
5. 5.
   Add the dried oregano, dried basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. 6.
   Gradually add the fish or vegetable broth, one cup at a time, stirring constantly and allowing the rice to absorb the liquid before adding more.
7. 7.
   Once the rice is almost cooked, add the clams, mussels, and shrimp to the pot. Cover and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the clams and mussels have opened and the shrimp is pink and cooked through.
8. 8.
   Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the dish and give it a gentle stir.
9. 9.
   Remove from heat and let the dish rest for a few minutes.
10. 10.
    Serve Sicilian-style Hén Rice hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Clams and mussels — Make sure to discard any open shells that do not close when tapped. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove any grit or sand.
• Arborio rice — Use Arborio rice for its creamy texture and ability to absorb flavors well. Rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dish.
• Serve Sicilian-style Hén Rice with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
• If you prefer a lighter version, you can use vegetable broth instead of fish broth.
• Experiment with different types of seafood, such as calamari or scallops, to personalize the dish.
• To enhance the Mediterranean flavors, drizzle some extra virgin olive oil over the finished dish before serving.

Serving advice

Serve Sicilian-style Hén Rice as a main course, accompanied by a fresh green salad. The dish is best enjoyed hot, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Presentation advice

Present Sicilian-style Hén Rice in individual bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. The vibrant colors of the seafood and herbs will make the dish visually appealing.