For something rather special, try my delicious Portuguese Tuna and Rice Сasserole (Arroz C’atum), a perfect sharing dish that everyone will love! There are a few different versions of Portuguese rice, all equally tasty. You have Arroz de Tomate (rice with tomato), Arroz com Frango (add chicken) and Arroz de Braga (with ham, sausage, and vegetables).
I love my tuna and rice casserole version, which I’ve loaded with extra flavor from Cheddar cheese, olives, hot pepper sauce, and garlic. The cream and ketchup give the rice its inviting color and creaminess and once the cheese has melted over the top, you have a really delicious and out-of-the-ordinary dish!
To make Portuguese Tuna and Rice Сasserole (Arroz C’atum), you will need the following ingredients:
Place a large pan over a high heat. Add the rice, butter, 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the water and bring to the boil.
Once boiling, lower the heat, cover with a lid and simmer for 20-25 minutes. The liquid should be absorbed and the rice should be tender.
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a square baking or casserole dish.
Add the remaining oil to a skillet and heat over a medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 3-4 minutes. Then add the garlic and cook for a further minute, until the onion has softened and the garlic is fragrant.
Mix in the tuna, ketchup, hot sauce, cream, and seasoning. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, until the mixture thickens.
Spread half the rice across the bottom of the baking dish. Tip the tuna mixture over the top and spread evenly, before covering with the remaining rice.
Scatter the olives and cheese over the top of the dish.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese has melted and started to brown.
For a warming plate of tasty goodness, have a go at my Portuguese Rice with Tuna (Arroz C’atum). What do you think of this version? Of course, you can make it your own by adding all kinds of different ingredients. I’d love to hear what works for you, so don’t forget to leave me some feedback below!
