Applesauce Rice
A comforting bowl of applesauce rice with cinnamon and chopped apple, perfect as a quick breakfast or a wholesome side for any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring water, applesauce, margarine, salt, and cinnamon to a boil in a medium saucepan.
- Stir in the minute instant brown rice.
- Return to a boil.
- Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in the chopped apple.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade applesauce or adding a splash of apple juice to the cooking liquid. If you don't have instant brown rice, regular brown rice will work, but adjust the cooking time according to package instructions. Adding nuts or raisins can enhance texture and taste. A dash of vanilla extract can also elevate the overall flavor of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Applesauce Rice warm as a comforting side dish alongside roasted meats or as a sweet breakfast option topped with a dollop of yogurt. It pairs beautifully with Almond Salad Dressing drizzled on a fresh side salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a protein like grilled chicken or a vegetarian option such as baked tofu.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or apple juice to prevent drying out, and warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Applesauce Rice contains roughly 632 calories, with 10g protein, 105g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1936mg per serving (84% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of rice for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of rice, but cooking times will vary. Instant brown rice is recommended for quick preparation. If using regular brown rice, increase the cooking time according to package directions, and add extra water as needed to ensure it cooks properly.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you ensure that the margarine used is gluten-free. Additionally, check your instant brown rice packaging to confirm it is labeled gluten-free. This makes it suitable for those following gluten-free diets while still being delicious and comforting.
What can I substitute for applesauce?
If you don't have applesauce, you can substitute it with mashed bananas or pureed pears. Both will provide moisture and sweetness to the dish. Alternatively, you can use a mix of fruit purees to create a unique flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the taste will vary slightly based on your choice.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).