Rice dumplings with spinach cream cheese
Rice dumplings with cheese cream and spinach
Imagine a table filled with color and delicious aromas, a dish that combines the comforting taste of rice with the creaminess of cheese and the freshness of spinach. This recipe for rice dumplings with cheese cream and spinach is not only healthy and nutritious but also a true delight for the senses. Throughout history, rice dishes have been appreciated in many cultures for their versatility and ability to bring people together around the table. Today, I invite you to discover how to prepare this delicious dish that will impress both family and friends.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4
Ingredients:
For the dumplings:
- 4 tablespoons of round-grain white rice (cooked until sticky)
- 1 tablespoon of butter (to add extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the cream:
- 1 heaping tablespoon of butter (for a rich sauce)
- 1 tablespoon of flour (to thicken the sauce)
- About 10 tablespoons of milk (to adjust the consistency of the sauce)
- 2 tablespoons of soft, fatty white cheese (for a creamy texture)
- 1 tablespoon of blanched spinach (for added color and nutrients)
Preparation:
1. Cooking the rice: Start by rinsing the rice under cold water to remove excess starch, which will make the rice stickier. Cook the rice in salted water according to the package instructions. When done, drain it and let it cool for a few minutes.
2. Preparing the cream: In a pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and stir vigorously for about 1 minute to form a roux. It’s important not to let the roux brown too much, so stir constantly.
3. Adding the milk: Gradually add the milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Keep stirring until the sauce begins to thicken. Adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding more tablespoons of milk if necessary.
4. Incorporating the cheese and spinach: When the sauce is ready, add the soft cheese and finely chopped blanched spinach. Mix well until the cheese completely melts into the creamy sauce. Turn off the heat and let the sauce cool slightly.
5. Forming the dumplings: With a wet hand (to prevent sticking), take a portion of rice and add a tablespoon of cheese cream in the middle. Form a ball or a drop, making sure to seal the cream well inside the rice. Repeat the process until you finish all the ingredients.
6. Cooking the dumplings: In a separate pan, add a little oil and heat it over medium heat. Place the dumplings in and cook until they turn golden and crispy on the outside, about 5-7 minutes. You can add salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serving: Arrange the dumplings on a platter, and pour the creamy cheese and spinach sauce over them. For an even more pleasing appearance and taste, you can sprinkle some chopped parsley or sesame seeds on top.
Practical tips:
- Make sure the rice is well cooked and sticky; otherwise, the dumplings will not form correctly.
- When forming the dumplings, you can also add other ingredients like sautéed mushrooms or vegetables to vary the recipe.
- If you don’t have cottage cheese, you can use ricotta or mascarpone cheese, which adds a similar texture.
Nutritional benefits:
These dumplings are an excellent source of carbohydrates from rice and protein from cheese. Spinach provides a significant amount of vitamins and minerals, being rich in iron and antioxidants.
Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use brown rice? Yes, but the cooking time will be different.
- How can I store the dumplings? They can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it is recommended to consume them immediately for optimal texture.
Possible variations:
- You can replace spinach with other green vegetables like kale or broccoli.
- For a more extravagant touch, add some strips of smoked salmon inside the dumplings.
Recommended pairings:
These delicious dumplings pair perfectly with a fresh salad or a light tomato sauce. You can also serve a glass of white wine or fresh lemonade to complete the meal.
Try this simple and quick recipe for rice dumplings with cheese cream and spinach and enjoy a dish that will bring joy in every bite!
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons of sticky boiled round grain white rice, 1 tablespoon of butter cream, salt, pepper. For the cream: 1 heaping tablespoon of butter, 1 tablespoon of flour, a few tablespoons of milk (approximately 10), 2 tablespoons of soft fatty white cow cheese, 1 tablespoon of blanched spinach.
