Are you looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal that the whole family will love? Look no further! This kielbasa and rice recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a truly memorable dish. It's a fantastic option for busy weeknights, offering a comforting and flavorful experience without requiring hours in the kitchen. This recipe is packed with flavor and is easily customizable to suit your preferences. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking with this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped (optional)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained (or other beans like black beans or pinto beans)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Brown the Sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
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Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper (if using) to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked kielbasa to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), kidney beans, rice, chicken broth, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
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Simmer and Cook: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Serve: Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
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 corn.
- Use different sausage: Andouille sausage or Italian sausage would also be delicious in this recipe.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche before serving for a richer flavor.
- Meal prep friendly: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Simply store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: Approximately 20-25g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-45g
This hearty and flavorful kielbasa and rice recipe is a perfect example of a delicious and easy dinner. It's a great way to enjoy a comforting meal without spending too much time in the kitchen, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner. Enjoy!