This comforting one-pot dish combines earthy brown rice with tender roasted eggplant and sweet bell peppers, all infused with warm spices like cumin, turmeric, and ginger. The vegetables soften in a savory broth, absorbing the rich flavors of olive oil and butter while the rice cooks to a perfect chewy texture. It’s a hearty, vegetarian-friendly side or main that brings Mediterranean warmth to any table. Ideal for weeknight dinners or potlucks, this recipe requires minimal active cooking time. The optional cheese adds a creamy finish, making it a satisfying, wholesome meal that feels both rustic and refined.
Cumin Rice With Eggplant & Peppers
Description
This comforting one-pot dish combines earthy brown rice with tender roasted eggplant and sweet bell peppers, all infused with warm spices like cumin, turmeric, and ginger. The vegetables soften in a savory broth, absorbing the rich flavors of olive oil and butter while the rice cooks to a perfect chewy texture. It&# 226;ÂÂs a hearty, vegetarian-friendly side or main that brings Mediterranean warmth to any table. Ideal for weeknight dinners or potlucks, this recipe requires minimal active cooking time. The optional cheese adds a creamy finish, making it a satisfying, wholesome meal that feels both rustic and refined.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 375ðF (191ðC).
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Rinse the brown rice thoroughly, cover with water, and let it soak while you prepare the vegetables.
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Cut the eggplant and one medium onion into 1/2-inch cubes.
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Cut one small green bell pepper, one small red or yellow pepper, and two medium peeled and seeded tomatoes into 1/2-inch pieces.
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Warm the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add the eggplant and onion, salt lightly, and sauté rapidly until the eggplant is soft but not mushy, about 5 minutes.
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Add the peppers, tomatoes, 4 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp turmeric, 1/4 tsp ground ginger, 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp freshly ground pepper, and chopped parsley or cilantro.
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Stir carefully to combine all ingredients and season with more salt to taste.
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Drain the soaked rice and add it to the skillet along with 3 cups of water.
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Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
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Transfer everything to a large baking dish or earthenware gratin dish.
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Place a piece of parchment paper over the top, then cover tightly with foil.
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Bake until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed, about 45 minutes.
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Remove from oven and toss with diced cheese (such as provolone, Monterey Jack, or Muenster) if using.
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Serve warm.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 197.1kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 11.4g18%
- Saturated Fat 3.1g16%
- Cholesterol 8.1mg3%
- Sodium 33.5mg2%
- Total Carbohydrate 21.4g8%
- Dietary Fiber 2.0g8%
- Sugars 0.8g
- Protein 2.5g5%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.