Mideastern Rice Casserole
A flavorful Middle Eastern rice casserole featuring tender rice, savory ham or chicken, sweet raisins, and crunchy almonds, perfect for a hearty, comforting meal any day.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onion in margarine until translucent.
- Add rice; saute for 3 minutes.
- Add bouillon, cooked diced ham or chicken, cooked corn or peas, and raisins.
- Bring to a boil.
- Remove from heat; cover and let stand for 5 minutes.
- Stir in toasted almonds and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using homemade chicken or beef stock instead of bouillon. You can also substitute the cooked ham or chicken with leftover beef or even tofu for a vegetarian version. If you want a bit more texture, add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms during the sautéing step. For a touch of sweetness, try adding a pinch of cinnamon to the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it alongside a tangy yogurt sauce to complement the flavors. For a heartier option, consider serving it with pita bread or over a bed of sautéed greens, making it a great choice for both family dinners and gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Ensure it's heated thoroughly before serving again, and enjoy as a quick meal option throughout the week.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mideastern Rice Casserole contains roughly 1475 calories, with 26g protein, 146g carbohydrates, and 98g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (107% of the Daily Value), protein (51% of the Daily Value), and iron (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1292mg per serving (56% 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 different types of rice for this casserole?
While Minute rice is recommended for its quick cooking time, you can use other types of rice. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid according to the rice package instructions. Long-grain or jasmine rice can add a different flavor profile, but will require longer soaking and cooking times.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this casserole vegetarian by omitting the meat and using vegetable bouillon instead of chicken or beef. You could also add more vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to enhance the dish. Additionally, using plant-based protein sources like chickpeas can add substance.
Can I freeze the Mideastern Rice Casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake in the oven until heated through.
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).