Orzo with Mushrooms

Orzo is very interesting.  It looks like rice, but it is pasta shaped like rice.  Back in the day when I made Rice A Roni, there was one variety that had orzo in it along with the rice.  I've since discovered how to make orzo as a side dish and not use Rice A Roni.  (No offense Rice A Roni lovers!)

Gather the players:  Orzo, Mushrooms, and Chicken Broth

Put a pat of butter in the saucepan let it melt, then add the mushrooms and saute'. The Brits say a "nub" of butter, but in the US, we say a pat of butter.  Just a bit of trivia!

Add the mushrooms to the saucepan.  I used three button mushrooms for this recipe.

After the mushrooms have cooked a bit and become tender, add in 1/2 cup of orzo.



Get 1 cup of chicken broth or stock ready.

Pour the chicken broth over the orzo and mushrooms in the saucepan.

Simmer uncovered.  Meanwhile slice a few scallions which will be added in. 

Stir occassionally so the orzo won't stick to the bottom of the pan. 

Add in a bit more chicken stock if it looks sticky.

After the orzo simmers for about 9 - 12 minutes, it will be tender.  Taste this along the way so the pasta will be done to your liking -- be careful not to get it overdone or it will be mushy.  Not good for orzo or any pasta!





We had this as a side dish tonight with baked venison and steamed green beans.  What?  Leftovers?  OK, I will have this tomorrow as a snack!