Okra and Tuna Rice Gratin (Doria)

This is my easy and quick version of rice gratin, or Doria, perfect for those busy days when my toddler is already asking for her food. Doria is an example of yōshoku, Western food tailored to Japanese tastes. It is a type of rice gratin popular in Japan, where cooked white rice is topped with sautéed meat, such as chicken or shrimp, and vegetables, then topped with a béchamel sauce and cheese, and baked as a casserole.

In this recipe, I use mayonnaise instead of béchamel sauce for a quicker and lighter option. This time, I had plenty of fresh okra, so I mixed it with tuna and mayonnaise to create a creamy, delicious topping. Not only is this dish quick and tasty, but it's also packed with nutrition, making it a hit with both children and adults.

Okra is a great source of vitamins A and C, antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and support a healthy immune system. It is also rich in fiber, which aids digestion. Tuna, on the other hand, is an excellent source of high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. Together, these ingredients make this dish not only flavorful but also nutritious.

Okra and Tuna Rice Gratin (Doria)

Preparation Time: 10M
Cooking time: 10M
Servings: 1

This Okra and Tuna Rice Gratin (Doria) is a quick and easy dish that combines the crunchiness of okra with the savory flavors of tuna and melted cheese. Rich in protein and vitamins, this recipe makes for a nutritious and delicious meal.

Ingredients:

• 3 pcs of okra
• 1/2 can of tuna (about 40g)
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• a pinch of black pepper (optional)
• 1 cup of cooked rice
• 10g of melting cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Okra: Trim the stems of the okra, wash them thoroughly, and slice them thinly.

2. Prepare the Tuna Mixture: Drain the oil from the tuna. In a bowl, mix the tuna with mayonnaise, soy sauce, a pinch of black pepper, and sliced okra until well combined.

3. Assemble the Dish: Place the cooked rice at the bottom of a heat-resistant dish. Top the rice with the tuna mixture and sprinkle the melting cheese evenly over the top.

4. Bake: Bake in a toaster oven or under a broiler until the cheese melts and forms a golden crust, about 5-10 minutes.

Notes:

• Selecting Okra: Choose fresh, firm okra pods without blemishes for the best texture and flavor.
• Tuna: Choose tuna packed in water for a lighter dish, or in oil for a richer flavor. Be sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the bake.
• Cheese: Use a good melting cheese like mozzarella, cheddar, or a cheese blend for a creamy and gooey topping.
• Baking: Keep an eye on the dish while baking to prevent the cheese from burning. The goal is a golden, bubbly crust.

Nutritional Analysis per Serving:

• Calories: 430kcal, Fat: 16g, Carbohydrates: 54g, Protein: 16g, Fiber: 3g, Sugar:1g, Cholesterol: 28mg, Sodium: 870mg, Potassium: 220mg

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