Simple Techniques Yield Big Flavor

Quite often it's not just the ingredients, but the preparation techniques that can really enhance the flavor of a simple dish. Take, for example, wild rice. I like it, but it can be a bit bland on its own. There is one simple technique that can make it more flavorful: toasting. While you're toasting the rice, toss in the seasonings. It's a tiny change, but will yield tasteful results!

This recipe is based on the package directions.

Toasted Wild Rice

1 c. Rice Select Royal Blend
1/2 t. salt (or to taste)
1/4 t. ground black pepper (or to taste)
1 t. butter or preferred oil
1.5 c. broth (may use meat-based or vegetarian)

Using a pan that's big enough to hold 3 cups, heat the pan until the bottom is hot. Add the rice and seasonings and toast until fragrant but not burnt. Add the broth (watch out for the steam!) and bring to a boil, then turn down to simmer. Cover and stir frequently until liquid is almost absorbed. Turn off heat and let steam, covered, until desired texture. Delicious on its own, as a side dish, or in a casserole.

Simple, but yummy!

What's cooking in your Savory kitchen?

Old Favorite With a New Twist

One of my family's favorite comfort foods is broccoli casserole.  It's my husband's specialty and he's forever tinkering with it.  Finally, he's come up with a recipe he actually had me write down.  We hope your family enjoys it as much as we do!

By the way, it freezes beautifully, so we make really big batches to freeze servings for later!

Savory Broccoli Casserole

1 stick of Kroger's Nice & Cheesy (2 pounds)
2 cans cream of chicken soup
6 cups of cooked rice (slightly underdone)
3 cups broccoli pieces
3 boneless/skinless chicken breasts, cubed and marinated in creamy Italian dressing
3 T. butter
3 T. Watkins Chicken Soup & Gravy Mix
1 T. Watkins Garlic & Parmesan Dip Mix
1 can French's Fried Onions

Cook chicken in skillet prepared with about 1 T. olive oil.  Save drippings to add to dish.  If you do not like chunks of broccoli, blend the broccoli and chicken soup until desired texture.  Cube cheese in large casserole dish with broccoli, cream of chicken soup, and butter.  Microwave until melted.  Add chicken and dripping and mix.  Add soup mix and dip mix and stir.  Add rice and stir until it begins to thicken.  Sprinkle onions on top & bake at 375 degrees for 1 hour.