Squash & Green Pepper Rice

Heat enough oil to cover the bottom of a medium sized saucepot. Add 2 T butter.

Saute squash, onion, and bell pepper with a pinch of salt and pepper on medium heat for approximately 3-4 minutes, or until squash is caramelized. Add garlic during last 30 seconds of cooking.

Transfer 3/4 the veggies to a food processor. Transfer remaining veggies to a plate. Puree until smooth.

Add enough oil to cover the bottom of the saucepot again. Add rice, chili powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir. Cook on medium heat 1 minute.

Add veggies, veggie puree, and vegetable stock. Stir. Bring to a simmer. Cover. Simmer 15 minutes or until water is evaporated. Remove from heat and do not uncover. Let steam 5-7 minutes.

Dice remaining butter. Fold butter and cheese into rice with a fork.

Variations; Parsley, allspice, dill, fennel, curry, chives, cilantro, cinnamon, basil, red bell pepper, cannellini, capers, ginger, lemon, marjoram, mint, oregano, fennel seed, canola oil, pine nuts, scallions, rosemary, tarragon, walnuts, thyme, tomatoes, tomato puree, parsnips, turnips, arugula, swiss chard, carrots, jalapeños, diced green chiles, goat cheese, chili powder, crushed pepper flakes, habanero, bacon, bacon fat, feta, paprika, smoked paprika, applewood seasoning, asiago, pecorino, ricotta, swiss, provolone, gruyere, mozzarella, parmesean, ricotta salata, coriander, corn, cotija, epazote, escarole, saffron, bulgur wheat, mustard greens, turnip greens, dijon, olives, sage, savory, nutmeg, shallots, sun dried tomatoes, zucchini blossoms, balsamic, sunflower seeds, cider vinegar, white wine vinegar, red wine vinegar, rice wine vinegar, chicken stock, chicken or vegetable bouillon, red onion