Brown Rice with Mushrooms and Spinach

When gently simmered on the stovetop, brown rice makes a perfect base for vegetables and pairs well with virtually any protein. Aside from the liquid-to-rice ratio (2.5 : 1), the amount of ingredients is not very critical. Well-sautéed onions and mushrooms make this dish work. Overall, the rice takes about an hour to cook. During this time, prepare the onions, mushrooms, spinach and any accompanying protein. Once the rice is done, stir in the vegetables and serve.

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INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup (200 grams) brown rice
• 2 ½ cups (590 grams) chicken broth or water
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 8 ounce container of fresh mushrooms (more or less)
• A couple handfuls of spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
• 1 teaspoon table salt (or to taste)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Begin with the rice -- Rinse and drain the rice in a colander. Place rice in a two quart (medium) saucepan and add broth (or water). Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat and then reduce to a simmer and cover. Simmer at low for about 45 minutes; check to see if all the water has evaporated. If so, remove from heat. If not, allow a few more minutes and check again.

2. While the rice is cooking, chop the onion, clean and slice the mushrooms, and rinse and roughly chop the spinach. Sauté the onions in a little bit of oil over medium heat, stirring frequently until translucent - about 5 minutes. Add garlic (if using) and cook for about a minute. Finally, add both the salt and the sliced mushrooms and sauté; stir to prevent sticking. Continue to cook the mushrooms until they brown and release some of the juices (about 5 minutes). Turn off the heat and keep covered until the rice is done.

Key: Be sure use enough heat to saute the onions and mushrooms in order to assure the most flavor development.

3. Once the rice is done, mix in the sautéed onions and mushrooms. Place the spinach on top of the rice mixture and cover for a few minutes. Allowing the rice to cool for several minutes with the lid on will give it a firmer texture. Before serving, thoroughly incorporate the spinach into rice mixture where it will wilt under residual heat. Check for seasoning. Add salt and pepper if needed and serve.