Indulge in the ultimate comfort food that transforms simple ingredients into a sophisticated, creamy masterpiece. This Mushroom and Cream Rice Gratin is a celebration of earthy flavors, combining tender rice, golden mushrooms, and a velvety cream sauce that will transport you to a cozy French countryside kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a hearty vegetarian main course or a show-stopping side dish, this gratin promises to delight your taste buds and warm your soul.
Ingredients
- US Measurements:
- Rice: 8.8 oz (long grain, basmati, or white rice)
- Fresh Mushrooms: 14 oz (button or mixed varieties)
- Onion: 1 medium
- Garlic: 2 cloves
- Butter: 1.4 oz (or 1 tbsp olive oil)
- Heavy Cream: 3/4 cup
- Vegetable Stock: 1/2 cup
- Flour: 1 tbsp (optional)
- Grated Cheese: 3.5-5.3 oz (Emmental, Comté, Gruyère)
- European Measurements:
- Rice: 250g
- Fresh Mushrooms: 400g
- Onion: 1 medium
- Garlic: 2 cloves
- Butter: 20g (or 1 tbsp olive oil)
- Heavy Cream: 200ml
- Vegetable Stock: 100ml
- Flour: 1 tablespoon (optional)
- Grated Cheese: 100-150g
Seasonings
- Salt and Pepper
- Fresh or Dried Parsley (optional)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Rice
- Cook rice in salted boiling water
- Follow package instructions
- Drain and set aside
2. Sauté the Mushrooms
- Clean mushrooms with a damp cloth
- Slice mushrooms
- Thinly slice onion and mince garlic
- Melt butter or heat olive oil in a skillet
- Sauté onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes
- Add mushrooms and cook for 8-10 minutes
- Cook until golden and water evaporates
- Season with salt, pepper, and parsley
3. Create the Creamy Sauce
- Combine cream and vegetable stock in a saucepan
- Optional: Add flour to thicken, whisking carefully
- Season with salt and pepper
4. Assemble and Bake the Gratin
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Layer rice in a baking dish
- Spread sautéed mushrooms over rice
- Pour creamy sauce evenly
- Top with grated cheese
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly
Cooking Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
Why This Recipe is Nutritionally Fantastic
This Mushroom and Cream Rice Gratin is more than just a delectable dish—it’s a nutritional gem! Mushrooms are packed with essential nutrients, offering vitamin D, B vitamins, and antioxidants. The dish provides a good balance of carbohydrates from rice, protein from cheese, and healthy fats from cream. It’s a vegetarian-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on flavor or nutritional value, making it perfect for those seeking a satisfying meat-free meal.
Pro Tips
- Use a mix of mushroom varieties for deeper flavor
- Choose a good melting cheese for the best gratin texture
- Let the gratin rest for 5-10 minutes before serving
Enjoy your culinary masterpiece!