Rice & Grains

Elarji (Adapted from The Georgian Feast) This very cheesy cornmeal pudding, made here with grits, is a perfect accompaniment to Georgian Pork Stew. The surprise is that ordinary supermarket mozzarella works better than fresh as a substitute for the Georgian sulguni cheese for which this recipe was designed.

A gift from Native American cooks, hominy is dried, hulled corn kernels. Sold rehydrated in cans, it also makes a great addition to soups, stews, and casseroles.

Like gumbo, this is a thick and flavorful stew. But it takes a lot less time to make. Active time: 45 min Start to finish: 1 1/4 hr

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Serve a nice bottle of Merlot alongside.

Who knew bulgur could be such a great substitute for rice in risotto? And without all that stirring. No, bulgur won’t replace Arborio rice anytime soon—but you’ll be surprised at how good it can be.

Kao Kua Active time: 10 min Start to finish: 25 min

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

One of my favorite meals was made by finding some leftover meat or fish and some cooked rice, and tossing them in a skillet with whatever caught our fancy. When you're good and hungry, a mixed-up quick meal tastes every bit as good as any long pot [long-cooked dish]. And you don't have to wait.

Active time: 25 min Start to finish: 45 min