Rice Florentine

This is a nice recipe I learned from my big sister. I believe she learned how to make Rice Florentine when she was in Europe. The taste is really good, and the meal is also so simple to make at home.

The Rice Florentine my sister makes uses brown rice as the base, but I used long-grain white rice instead, along with the other ingredients listed below. What I believe gives this Rice Florentine its unique taste and makes it special is the spinach, as I used 4 cups. It adds a nice, strong herby flavor to the rice that makes it delicious.

I’m not a big fan of rice recipes, usually, I enjoy rice as a side, but this Rice Florentine is really good, especially when we have it with chicken sausage as the main dish. It pairs so well, and you should definitely try it.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups water or chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: pinch of nutmeg

How to Make Rice Florentine?

Step 1:

First, cook the rice. Put water in a pot and make it hot. Add the rice, turn the heat low, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 15 minutes. While the rice cooks, melt butter in a big pan on the stove. Put the chopped onion in and cook it for 3 to 4 minutes. Then add the chopped garlic and cook for 1 more minute, and keep stirring.

Step 2:

Next, add the chopped spinach to the pan. Stir it until the spinach gets soft, about 2 or 3 minutes. Now, let’s make the creamy sauce. In a small bowl, mix the flour and milk until it’s smooth. Pour this into the pan with the spinach and onion, and keep stirring. Cook it for about 5 minutes.

Step 3:

When the rice is done, put it into the pan with the spinach and sauce. Stir so the rice gets covered with the sauce. Then add the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and mixes in. Taste it and add a little salt, pepper, or nutmeg if you want. Enjoy.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Medium saucepan with a lid (for cooking rice)
• Large skillet or frying pan (for cooking spinach and sauce)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board and knife (for chopping onion, garlic, and spinach)
• Whisk or fork (for mixing flour and milk)
• Wooden spoon or spatula (for stirring)
• Grater (for the cheese)

What to Serve with Rice Florentine?

Besides chicken sausages, I also love to enjoy Rice Florentine with Chicken Carciofi. The chicken and artichoke go so nicely with the creamy spinach rice. It also goes great with baked salmon or some roasted vegetables like carrots, and even garlic bread is perfect for scooping up the creamy bits and makes it a full family dinner.

FAQ

What is Rice Florentine made of?

Rice Florentine is made of cooked rice mixed with fresh spinach, butter, onions, garlic, cheese (Parmesan and mozzarella), milk, and flour to make the creamy sauce.

How does Rice Florentine taste like?

It tastes creamy and cheesy with a mild garlic and spinach flavor.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach.

How long does it take to make Rice Florentine?

It usually takes about 30 to 35 minutes.

Can I make Rice Florentine vegan?

You can try substituting the butter and cheeses with vegan versions and use a plant-based milk to make it vegan.

What if I don’t have mozzarella cheese?

You can use any mild melting cheese like Monterey Jack instead.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze Rice Florentine?

Yes, up to a month.

Is it gluten-free?

No

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, mushrooms are good to add.

What is the best cheese to use?

Parmesan and mozzarella work best, but you have so many options to choose from.

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