National Dish Switzerland: Riz Casimir (Recipe)
In this article
Meet Riz Casimir, a beloved Swiss classic that charms the senses with its playful blend of sweet and savoury. Tender curried meat and fragrant rice meet the tropical brightness of pineapple and banana, all bound together in a mild, creamy curry sauce. It is the kind of comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that turns an ordinary supper into a small celebration, and it brings friends and family happily together around the table.
About Riz Casimir
Riz Casimir is a cherished Swiss classic that delights the palate with its unexpected marriage of flavours. It brings together the exotic sweetness of fresh fruit with the hearty savour of tender meat and fragrant rice. The combination of pineapple, banana and a mild curry sauce in particular makes for an unforgettable eating experience. Whether at a special occasion or a relaxed gathering, Riz Casimir has a knack for bringing friends and family together and creating memorable moments at the table.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 200 g long-grain rice
- 200 g chicken breast or pork
- 1 small pineapple, diced
- 1 banana, sliced
- 2 tablespoons curry paste or curry powder
- 400 ml coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Shopping for the ingredients
To make Riz Casimir at its best, it is well worth sourcing good-quality ingredients. Visit your local supermarket or a fresh market to pick up ripe fruit and vegetables. Make sure the meat is fresh, and choose organic produce wherever you can. This helps guarantee a dish with the finest flavour and the highest quality.
Preparing the dish
Getting a delicious Riz Casimir under way is refreshingly straightforward and quick. Begin by gathering all the ingredients and laying them out on your work surface. Wash and peel the fruit so it is ready to use later on. Set the rice to cook in plenty of lightly salted water while you prepare the meat and the sauce.
Step-by-step instructions
- Cook the rice in lightly salted water according to the packet instructions.
- Heat the oil in a large pan and fry the diced meat until golden brown.
- Add the curry paste and stir everything together well.
- Pour in the coconut milk and let it simmer gently over medium heat for about 10 minutes.
- In the final minute, add the pineapple and banana pieces and stir through briefly.
- Serve the curry alongside the rice and enjoy.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Riz Casimir is easily adapted for anyone with a gluten or lactose intolerance. Use naturally gluten-free rice so the dish is safe for those with coeliac disease, and double-check that your curry paste contains no wheat-based thickeners. The coconut milk is already dairy-free, so the sauce stays wonderfully creamy and lactose-free without any extra effort. That way the flavour remains true while everyone’s dietary needs are respected.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
To prepare Riz Casimir for vegans or vegetarians, simply swap the meat for tofu or a colourful mix of vegetables. Tofu takes to the curry sauce beautifully and soaks up the aromas as it cooks. You might also add a little extra pineapple and banana to make the dish even fruitier. In this way Riz Casimir becomes a real treat for those who avoid animal products, without losing any of its character.
More tips and tricks
A successful Riz Casimir often comes down to small details. Experiment with different herbs or spices to create your own signature note. A splash of lemon juice just before serving can lift and brighten the aromas. It also helps to stir the dish well so the flavours are evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Depending on your personal taste, Riz Casimir is easy to tweak. If you prefer more heat, add a little chilli or a spicier curry paste. For a lighter version, replace the rice with cauliflower rice. You can also vary the dish with different fruits such as mango or papaya to discover new flavour combinations.
Ingredient substitutions
Instead of chicken or pork, you might use beef or even seafood to give the dish more variety — an idea that pairs naturally with the creamy style of Zürcher Geschnetzeltes. There are no limits to your imagination when it comes to the vegetables either, and adding peppers or courgette brings extra freshness. You can also adjust the curry sauce to your liking, stirring in a little dry white wine to deepen the savoury notes.
Drink pairing ideas
Round off your Riz Casimir with a well-chosen drink to complete the experience. A cold lager or a refreshing rosé goes beautifully with the exotic character of the dish. Non-alcoholic options such as a fruity iced tea or sparkling water with a hint of lemon make for a welcome refreshment too. Experiment and find the perfect partner for your meal.
Serving and presentation ideas
Presentation plays a real part in the enjoyment of Riz Casimir. Serve it in an attractive bowl or on a striking plate, keeping the rice and curry neatly arranged. Garnish with fresh herbs such as coriander or parsley to add a touch of colour. Take care to arrange the fruit appealingly, perhaps finishing with an edible flower petal for a note of elegance.
A bit of history
Riz Casimir has its roots in Swiss home cooking and draws on influences from further afield. Created in the mid-20th century by the kitchens of the Mövenpick restaurant chain, it quickly became a symbol of relaxed, sociable dining. Historically it was served at festive occasions to bring friends and family together, and today it remains a firm favourite in many households — a much-loved corner of Swiss cuisine that is now known well beyond the country’s borders.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Riz Casimir
All in all, Riz Casimir offers an exceptional taste experience that reflects the variety of Swiss cooking. With its combination of savoury meat, exotic fruit and fragrant rice, this dish suits both special occasions and cosy get-togethers alike. Its scope for variation makes it easy to adapt to every palate. See for yourself and discover the charm of Riz Casimir.
