Welcome to our kitchen! Are you looking for a dish that combines enchanting color, unforgettable taste, and immense health benefits? Today, we present a recipe that is more than just a meal; it is a "dose of happiness and health" in one bowl. We will learn together how to make Rice with Beetroot, Carrots, and Chicken Liver, a dish we call "Ruby Rice" because of its naturally vibrant red glow. If your children refuse to eat vegetables or liver, this recipe is the "magic solution" because it blends ingredients harmoniously, making the taste divine and the look perfect for dinner parties or daily meals, while also being an economical and nutritious meal.
Why Choose the Beetroot and Carrot Rice Recipe?
Amidst the pressures of daily life, we always search for quick and easy lunch ideas that don't strain the budget. Chicken liver with rice is an affordable protein compared to red meat, yet it surpasses it in iron content. By adding beetroot (beet) and carrots, we aren't just making a colorful dish; we are creating the best natural meal to treat anemia, with a taste that will impress anyone who tries it.
Beetroot, Carrot, and Liver Rice Ingredients
To prepare this professional recipe, you will need simple ingredients available in every kitchen:
- 4 cups of short-grain rice (Egyptian or similar), washed and drained.
- 1 large beetroot (or 2 medium), finely grated or finely minced in a food processor to ensure it melts into the rice.
- 2 carrots, grated or minced for a natural sweet flavor.
- 1 large onion, very finely chopped (the secret to the base flavor).
- Chicken liver portion (about 500g), thoroughly cleaned with lemon, drained, and cut into small pieces.
- High-quality vegetable oil.
- Spices: Salt and black pepper (you can add a pinch of cinnamon to enhance the liver's flavor).
Steps to Prepare Beetroot and Carrot Rice (Detailed Guide)
Follow these steps precisely for perfectly fluffy rice and a rich flavor:
- Initial Sautéing Phase: In a wide pot over medium heat, place the chopped onions, grated beetroot, grated carrots, and the chicken liver pieces.
- Slow Cooking: Add salt and black pepper, then reduce the heat to low. You will notice the vegetables releasing their natural, nutrient-rich juices. Let the mixture simmer until it absorbs these liquids and the liver starts to cook. This step is the secret to successful beetroot rice, ensuring the vegetable flavors are fully integrated.
- Adding the Rice: Once the liquids have evaporated, add the oil and sauté slightly, then pour in boiling water (use the standard water-to-rice ratio for your specific rice type).
- Simmering: As soon as the water boils, add the washed rice. Wait until it absorbs most of the water, then turn the heat to the lowest setting and give it one gentle stir.
- Final Maturation: Leave it on very low heat until fully cooked. You will be amazed by the aroma of the rice with vegetables and liver filling your home!
Serving Suggestions: Make Your Table a Masterpiece
Because we eat with our eyes first, the presentation of beetroot rice matters. Here are some side dish ideas that pair perfectly with this royal meal:
- Red Cabbage and Pomegranate Salad: Matches the dish's color and adds a lovely "crunch" and acidity to balance the richness of the liver.
- Syrian Makdous: For fans of bold flavors, Makdous with red rice creates a stunning taste harmony.
- Warm Tomato Soup: Start your meal with a creamy tomato soup to complete a healthy and balanced lunch.
- Garnishing: Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or toasted nuts over the rice to break the red color and give it a luxurious look.
Nutritional Value: Why is This Dish a Health Treasure?
When we talk about the benefits of beetroot and carrots with liver, we are talking about a natural pharmacy:
- Beetroot: Rich in nitrates that improve blood flow and antioxidants that protect cells.
- Carrots: An excellent source of beta-carotene and Vitamin A for eye and skin health.
- Chicken Liver: One of the richest sources of Vitamin B12 and Iron, making it the top choice for those with chronic fatigue.
- Rice: Provides the necessary carbohydrates to fuel your body throughout the day.
Important Medical Note
While Beetroot and Liver Rice is highly beneficial, we advise individuals with a history of kidney stones (oxalate type) to consume beetroot in moderation. Additionally, diabetic patients should factor in the rice and carrot portions as part of their daily intake due to their natural sugars and starches. Balance is always the key to health.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use Basmati rice instead of short-grain rice?
Absolutely! Basmati Rice with Beetroot is wonderful; just ensure you adjust the water ratio (usually 1.5 to 2 cups of water per cup of Basmati).
2. How do I get rid of the "gamey" smell of chicken liver?
The best way is to soak the liver in a bit of milk or wash it with lemon and vinegar, then drain it completely before cooking it with the vegetables.
3. My child doesn't like beetroot; will they taste it?
Surprisingly, the grated beetroot melts away, providing only color and a slight sweetness. The "earthy" taste disappears with the onions and spices, making it a clever trick to feed kids vegetables.
Conclusion
Finally, we hope you enjoyed this Beetroot, Carrot, and Chicken Liver Rice recipe. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s an expression of love and care for your family's health. Try this budget-friendly recipe and share your thoughts in the comments. Don't forget to share this article with your friends so everyone can enjoy the magnificent "Ruby Rice." Bon appétit!