A historical main dish from Favorite tested recipes of the members of Humboldt Park Chapter O.E.S and their friends (1900).
Preserved exactly as written in the original source
Boil one and one-half cups rice in salted water until nearly done
then mix it with two pounds chopped beef, a large onion, chopped, salt and pepper to taste and a quart can of tomatoes
place in large baking dish, cover with cracker crumbs and bake one hour
Modern guidance to help you succeed with this vintage recipe
This historical casserole relies on the Maillard reaction during the hour-long bake to develop deep, savory flavors from the beef and tomatoes. Parcooking the rice prevents it from becoming mushy, as it continues to absorb liquid from the tomatoes during baking. The cracker crumb topping creates a textural contrast by forming a crispy crust while protecting the casserole from drying out, acting as an insulating layer that allows steam to escape gradually.
The casserole can be assembled (without the cracker topping) up to 24 hours ahead, covered tightly, and refrigerated. Add the cracker crumb topping just before baking and increase baking time by 10-15 minutes if starting from cold.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or reheat the entire dish covered with foil in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes. The cracker topping will soften during storage but can be refreshed under the broiler for 1-2 minutes.
AI-generated tips from Chef Cecil's culinary database
The casserole can be assembled (without the cracker topping) up to 24 hours ahead, covered tightly, and refrigerated. Add the cracker crumb topping just before baking and increase baking time by 10-15 minutes if starting from cold.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or reheat the entire dish covered with foil in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes. The cracker topping will soften during storage but can be refreshed under the broiler for 1-2 minutes.
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