Name: Serbian Rice and Meat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Serbian
Ingredients: 160 g basmati rice; 250 g tomato passata (or strained tomatoes); 100 g peas; 2 bell peppers; 450 ml vegetable broth; 350 g chicken breast fillet; 2 garlic cloves; 1 onion; 2 tsp salt; 1 tsp sweet paprika; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper or hot paprika

Serbian Rice and Meat is a hearty and flavorful dish that will quickly become a favorite in your household. This traditional Serbian recipe is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

The combination of tender chicken, fragrant rice, and vibrant vegetables creates a symphony of flavors that will delight your taste buds.
With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is perfect for those looking for a quick and easy meal option.
Serbian Rice and Meat is also ideal for meal prep, as it reheats beautifully and can be enjoyed throughout the week.

Ingredient Notes:

Basmati rice: Known for its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture, basmati rice is the perfect choice for this dish.
Tomato passata (or strained tomatoes): Adds a rich and tangy flavor to the dish.
Peas and bell peppers: Provide a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Vegetable broth: Infuses the rice with savory flavor.
Chicken breast fillet: Adds protein and a hearty texture to the dish.
Salt, sweet paprika, cayenne pepper or hot paprika, garlic cloves, onion: These seasonings and aromatics come together to create a flavorful and aromatic dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

In a large skillet, sauté the diced onion and garlic until fragrant.
Add the chicken breast fillet, sweet paprika, cayenne pepper (or hot paprika), and salt. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides.
Stir in the basmati rice, tomato passata, peas, and bell peppers. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
Cover the skillet and let the dish cook until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Helpful Tips:

For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas.
Feel free to customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
This dish pairs well with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

To enhance the flavors of this dish, marinate the chicken in the seasonings for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
Use high-quality basmati rice for the best texture and aroma.
For a spicier kick, add extra cayenne pepper or hot paprika to the dish.

Serving Suggestions:

Serbian Rice and Meat pairs well with a side of tangy pickles, a dollop of sour cream, and a refreshing cucumber salad. For a complete meal, serve with a glass of chilled white wine or a traditional Serbian Rakija.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To store leftovers, transfer the dish to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to prevent the rice from drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use brown rice instead of basmati rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice for basmati rice, but the cooking time may vary.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of tomato passata?

Yes, canned tomatoes can be used as a substitute, but you may need to adjust the seasonings accordingly.

How can I make this dish more spicy?

Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or hot paprika to add more heat to the dish.

Conclusion:

Serbian Rice and Meat is a comforting and flavorful dish that is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Give this traditional Serbian recipe a try and enjoy the delightful flavors it has to offer. Don’t forget to share your feedback and let us know how it turned out!