French Brown Rice
A hearty and savory dish combining long grain and brown rice with mushrooms, seasoned with onion soup and beef consomme for a flavorful, comforting meal ideal for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a 2 1/2 to 3-quart casserole dish.
- Add beef consomme, French onion soup, and seasoning from the rice package.
- Add plain rice, long grain and brown rice, and mushrooms.
- Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Cook uncovered at 325°F (160°C) for 1 hour until all the water is absorbed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed garlic or fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. You can substitute the beef consomme with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. If you don't have onion soup, a mix of sautéed onions and garlic powder can work in a pinch. Make sure to use long grain and brown rice for the best texture; avoid instant rice as it won't absorb the flavors well.
Serving Suggestions
This French Brown Rice dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a hearty side for a roast, such as Brenda's Pot Roast. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting dinner, it complements well with a rich beef stew, enhancing the flavors and providing a satisfying texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the dish, cover it, and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of French Brown Rice contains roughly 7 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 different types of rice in this recipe?
While this recipe calls for long grain and brown rice, you could experiment with other rice varieties like jasmine or basmati for different flavors. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust the liquid and cooking duration accordingly to ensure the rice is fully cooked.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting the beef consomme with vegetable broth and omitting any meat products. The flavor will still be rich thanks to the mushrooms and onion soup, creating a delicious vegetarian option for everyone.
How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?
To prevent mushy rice, ensure that you're using the correct ratio of liquid to rice, and avoid stirring the rice too much during cooking. Make sure to cook it uncovered so the moisture evaporates properly, allowing the rice to absorb just enough liquid to achieve the desired texture.
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).