Green Beans Kimchi Casserole

The word casserole comes from the French word for "saucepan,” a large, deep dish used both in the oven and as a serving vessel. Casseroles usually consist of pieces of meat (such as chicken) or fish (such as tuna), various chopped vegetables, a starchy binder such as flour, potato or pasta, and often a crunchy topping. Liquids are released from the meat and vegetables during cooking, and further liquid in the form of stock, wine, beer, cider, or vegetable juice may be added when the dish is assembled.

Casseroles are usually cooked slowly in the oven, often uncovered. They may be served as a main course or a side dish, and may be served in the vessel in which they were cooked.

Today I’m going to introduce my favorite vegetarian casserole dish which I make for my family and friends during the holidays. This recipe was introduced in my Season II Christmas Special episode. Unlike most American casseroles where pasta and potatoes are used, I am using rice and kimchi instead! I’m using cheese for the topping, but not too heavy on it.

My American family and friends really seem to enjoy this fusion dish with the spicy and crunchy kimchi blended with the hot melted cheese mixed with the earthy flavor of the shiitake mushrooms and cream of chicken.

This dish is very easy to make once you have all the ingredients in place. So try it out at home for your family and friends!

Green Beans Kimchi Casserole
Servings: 5-6

Ingredients:
5 cups of jasmine rice, cooked

4 cups of shredded 3 cheese blends

5 cups of cut green beans

3 cups of kimchi (sautéed in sesame oil)

3 cups of dried shiitake mushrooms, soaked in water and squeezed

2 cups of light butter

3 cups, cream of chicken (from a can)

Garnish: Cucumber, parsley and bell tomatoes

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Mix all the ingredients with cooked rice in a casserole dish (leave half the cheese on the side)
3. Spread reserved cheese on top
4. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes
5. Garnish with cucumbers and tomatoes as seen in the picture

Tips:
* You can also mix in a can of tuna (drained) for some added proteins