Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Kielbasa and Rice recipe is a perfect example of delicious, homemade cooking that doesn't require hours in the kitchen. It's a fantastic option for busy weeknights, a satisfying lunch, or even a simple yet impressive dinner for guests. This easy recipe combines savory kielbasa sausage with fluffy rice and vibrant vegetables for a complete and healthy meal. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds (choose your favorite kind – Polish, smoked, or even spicy!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
- 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and green bell pepper and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
Step 2: Brown the Kielbasa
Add the sliced kielbasa to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the dish.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Stir in the undrained diced tomatoes, rice, chicken broth, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this quick dinner idea!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add more veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Make it cheesy: Stir in some shredded cheddar cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Use different sausage: Andouille sausage or Italian sausage would also be delicious in this recipe.
- Brown rice option: Substitute long-grain brown rice for white rice, increasing the cooking time accordingly (follow package instructions).
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 20-25g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-45g
This Kielbasa and Rice recipe is a simple, satisfying, and delicious meal that's perfect for any night of the week. It's a fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals that are both quick and flavorful. Enjoy!