Asturian-Style Baked Rice with Chorizo and Cheese

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Maltese dish, Ross il-forn, is transformed into an Asturian delight. The original dish typically includes ingredients like beef, tomato sauce, and Maltese cheese. However, in this Asturian version, the beef is replaced with chorizo, a popular ingredient in Asturian cuisine known for its smoky and spicy flavors. Additionally, the tomato sauce is omitted, allowing the flavors of the chorizo and cheese to shine. The result is a dish that captures the essence of Asturian cuisine while still paying homage to the original Maltese dish. We alse have the original recipe for Ross il-forn, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) Arborio rice 2 cups (400g) Arborio rice
• 4 cups (950ml) chicken broth 4 cups (950ml) chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 200g Asturian chorizo, sliced 200g Asturian chorizo, sliced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup (100g) grated Asturian cheese (such as Cabrales or Gamoneu) 1 cup (100g) grated Asturian cheese (such as Cabrales or Gamoneu)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 55g, 2g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the sliced chorizo to the skillet and cook until it releases its oils and becomes slightly crispy.
4. 4.
   Stir in the smoked paprika and Arborio rice, coating the rice with the flavorful oils.
5. 5.
   Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. 6.
   Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the preheated oven.
7. 7.
   Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
8. 8.
   Remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle the grated Asturian cheese over the top.
9. 9.
   Return the skillet to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. 10.
    Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chorizo — Asturian chorizo is recommended for its distinct smoky flavor. If unavailable, you can substitute it with another spicy and smoky sausage like Spanish chorizo or Portuguese chouriço.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the rice mixture before baking.
• Experiment with different types of Asturian cheese to find your favorite flavor combination.
• Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors.

Serving advice

Asturian-Style Baked Rice with Chorizo and Cheese is best served hot, straight from the oven. It can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle some fresh parsley over the top of the dish before serving. The vibrant green color will add a pop of freshness to the golden-brown cheese.