Paulista Golden Casserole
The Paulista Golden Casserole is a cherished dish that exudes the rich and diverse culinary traditions of São Paulo, Brazil. Known for its vibrant culture and bustling food scene, São Paulo provides an inspiring backdrop for this dish, which beautifully marries Portuguese, Indigenous, and African influences found in local cuisine. Perfect for family gatherings or festive occasions, this casserole offers a golden blend of flavors brought together by fresh ingredients and a unique blend of spices. Over the years, it has embodied the spirit of communal feasting, often being the centerpiece at many a festive table.
Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts - 4 pieces, boneless and skinless
- Long Grain Rice - 2 cups
- Onion - 1 large, finely chopped
- Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
- Bell Pepper - 1 large, chopped
- Tomatoes - 2 medium, diced
- Coconut Milk - 1 can
- Olive Oil - 3 tablespoons
- Turmeric - 1 teaspoon
- Cumin - 1 teaspoon
- Coriander - 1 teaspoon
- Paprika - 1 teaspoon
- Salt - to taste
- Black Pepper - to taste
- Chicken Broth - 3 cups
- Cilantro - for garnish
Preparation
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and paprika. Ensure the seasoning coats each piece thoroughly. Allow the chicken to marinate while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Dice the onion, mince the garlic, chop the bell pepper, and dice the tomatoes. Set these aside for the frying process.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once cooked, remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if necessary, and sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant. Add the bell pepper and cook until it is tender, followed by the tomatoes.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large casserole dish, spread the uncooked rice evenly on the bottom. Layer the sautéed vegetables over the rice, then place the cooked chicken breasts on top. Pour in the chicken broth and coconut milk over the top, ensuring the liquid completely covers the rice and chicken.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes. Check the dish after this time by removing the foil and inspecting the rice. It should be tender and absorb all the broth. If not, recover and bake for an additional 10 minutes. To set your cooking timer, click here.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for 10 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables.
Enjoying Your Meal
Paulista Golden Casserole offers a satisfying depth of flavor and comforting warmth, perfect for enjoying with a glass of white wine or a chilled Brazilian beer. Its diverse taste profile not only delights the tastebuds but also tells a story of cultural fusion and culinary artistry. This casserole is best enjoyed in the company of friends and family, as a testament to the vibrant culinary heritage from which it originates.