Title: Cumin Rice with Eggplant and Peppers
Categories: Vegetable Entree Casserole
Yield: 4 Servings
| 1 1/2 | c | Brown rice |
| 2 | tb | Virgin olive oil |
| 1 | tb | Butter |
| 1 | | Eggplant (10-12 oz) cut in 1/2-inch cubes |
| 1 | md | Onion cut into 1/4-inch squares |
| | | Salt |
| 1 | sm | Green bell pepper; cut into 1/2-inch squares |
| 1 | sm | Red or yellow pepper or a mixture, cut into 1/2-inch squar |
| 2 | md | Tomatoes; peeled, seeded and cut into large pieces -OR- |
| 15 | oz | -Canned Tomatoes, drained and cut into large pieces |
| 4 | ts | Ground cumin |
| 1/2 | ts | Turmeric |
| 1/4 | ts | Ground ginger |
| 1/4 | ts | Ground cinnamon |
| 1/2 | ts | Freshly ground pepper |
| 1/4 | c | Chopped parsley or cilantro |
| 3 | c | Water |
| 1 | c | Dried provolone (optional) =OR=- Monterey Jack =OR=- Muenste |
RINSE THE RICE, cover it with water and set it aside to soak while you
prepare the rest of the vegetables. Preheat the oven to 375F. Warm the oil
and butter in a large skillet. Add the eggplant and onion, salt them
lightly, and rapidly saute them to distribute the oil. Cook over medium
heat until the eggplant is soft but not mushy, about 5 minutes. Add the
peppers, tomatoes, spices (including the pepper), parsley and more salt to
taste. Stir carefully, combining everything well. Drain the rice and add it
to the pan along with 3 cups water. Turn up the heat to bring the water to
a boil, then transfer everything to a baking dish, such as a large,
earthenware gratin dish. Lay a piece of parchment over the top, cover with
foil, and bake until the rice is done, about 45 minutes. Toss the diced
cheese, if you're using it, into the rice and serve. Serves 4 as a main
course or 6 to 8 as a side dish.