One of the things I missed after developing some kind of allergy/intolerance to onions and garlic, is the convenience of using boxed foods--and sometimes the flavors of boxed foods. Chicken-flavored Rice-A-Roni was one food I was able to eat for a while, as long as I didn't overdo it. But something changed; whether they started adding more alliums, or I grew more sensitive, I don't know. But the last time was...the last time. Sooooo.... Here is my first attempt to replicate it. Oh, and not only is it onion and garlic free, but also vegetarian.
Ingredients:
1 package Rice-A-Roni. (Discard flavoring package)
1 Tbsp margarine or butter (I use Smart Balance)
2 1/2 cup water
1 Tbsp pureed carrots (baby food--mimics the onion and garlic)
1 tsp soy sauce (make sure it doesn't contain onion or garlic)
1/2 tsp celery salt (I used one teaspoon, and it seemed like too much)
1/2 tsp parsley flakes (I used 1/4 tsp and it was too little)
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp sugar
1/4 tsp pepper
1/8 tsp turmeric
Brown rice-vermicelli mix in butter according to package directions. While it is browning, mix remaining ingredients with the water. Add in place of water and seasoning packets, and continue to follow package directions.
This recipe may change a bit, as I play with the quantities of ingredients. If anyone tries this and has suggestions, I'd love for you to leave them in the comments.