If there’s a dish that brings comfort and creativity to the table, it’s Snow on the Mountain. This unique recipe is as fun to make as it is to eat, combining layers of savory and sweet flavors with a stunning presentation that looks like a snowy peak. It’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings or potlucks when we want something both hearty and memorable.
Snow On The Mountain Recipe
Creating this visually stunning and flavorful dish, “Snow on the Mountain,” is a delightful journey. Follow our step-by-step guide to assemble layers of mouthwatering ingredients into a snowy masterpiece.
Ingredients
For the Main Dish:
- 2 cups cooked white rice, fluffy and warm
- 2 cups cooked diced chicken, seasoned lightly with salt and pepper
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
For the Toppings:
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup salted cashews, chopped
- 1 cup flaked coconut, toasted for a golden finish
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup canned pineapple chunks, drained well
For Serving:
- Your choice of soft bread or crackers on the side
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth.
- Add the cooked chicken into the mixture and stir well to coat every piece.
Step 2: Assemble the Rice Base
- Spread the cooked rice evenly across the bottom of a large serving platter or casserole dish.
- Gently spoon the chicken mixture over the rice, ensuring it covers the base completely.
Step 3: Add the Layers
- Sprinkle an even layer of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the chicken.
- Add the pineapple chunks, creating a sweet touch to balance the dish.
- Top with cashews and green onions for added crunch and flavor.
Step 4: The “Snowy” Finish
- Gently scatter the toasted coconut over the entire dish to mimic snow on a mountain.
- Adjust the amount of coconut to your liking for a light or heavy “snowfall.”
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve immediately with soft bread or crackers on the side for scooping.
- Encourage guests to dig in to reveal the beautiful layers and savor the sweet and savory contrast.
Cooking Essentials & Tips:
| Tips | Details |
|---|---|
| Toast the Coconut | Use a dry skillet over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to avoid burning. |
| Dice Chicken Small | This ensures even distribution and easier consumption. |
| Drain Pineapple Well | Excess juice may make the dish soggy. |
Ingredients
To prepare the “Snow on the Mountain” recipe, we’ll need a mix of hearty, creamy, and flavorful ingredients. Break it down step-by-step with these organized categories to ensure we have everything ready for assembling this visually stunning dish.
For The Chicken Mixture
- 3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing, optional)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
For The Sauce
- 2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional, for a savory kick)
For The Rice
- 4 cups cooked white rice (we recommend jasmine or basmati for added fragrance)
Optional Toppings
These toppings add texture and brightness to the dish. You can include one or all of these for the complete “Snow on the Mountain” experience.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (mild or sharp, your choice)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened toasted coconut
- 1/3 cup chopped cashews or almonds
- 1 cup diced pineapple (ensure well-drained to avoid sogginess)
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions for garnish
Feel free to customize the optional toppings to suit your flavor preferences! Each addition enhances the dish with a unique and delightful twist.
Tools And Equipment
To bring this “Snow on the Mountain” recipe to life, we need to equip our kitchen with the right tools and equipment. These essential items will help ensure a smooth and efficient preparation, delivering the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Here’s a detailed list of what we will need:
Essential Cooking Tools:
- Large Skillet: For sautéing the chicken, onion, and garlic to perfection.
- Medium Saucepan: Ideal for heating and combining the creamy sauce ingredients.
- Rice Cooker or Pot: To cook the fluffy white rice base. A rice cooker ensures consistently cooked rice.
- Baking Dish (9×13-inch): Perfect for layering and assembling the dish.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Great for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
- Mixing Bowls (Medium and Large): For combining the toppings and chicken mixture.
Prep Equipment:
- Chopping Board: Use for dicing chicken, onions, and any toppings like green onions or pineapple.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife: Essential for precise cuts and efficiency.
- Grater: Required if shredding fresh cheddar cheese.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements of sauces, rice, and toppings.
- Coconut Toasting Pan or Small Skillet: A small pan for lightly toasting coconut flakes to their golden hue.
Serving and Plating:
- Serving Platter or Individual Plates: Feature the layers beautifully when serving to guests.
- Ladle or Large Serving Spoon: To scoop and layer the hearty servings of this dish.
- Toppings Bowls: If serving the toppings separately for customization, use small bowls for serving cashews, toasted coconut, and other garnishes.
Equipment Usage Table:
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Skillet | Sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic. |
| Medium Saucepan | Combine and heat creamy sauce ingredients. |
| Rice Cooker or Pot | Cook the jasmine or basmati rice to perfection. |
| Baking Dish | Layer the dish’s components for cooking and serving. |
| Mixing Bowls | Mix toppings and chicken mixture effectively. |
| Chopping Board & Knife | Dice fresh ingredients like onion, chicken, and pineapple. |
| Grater | Shred cheddar cheese as a fresh topping. |
| Toasting Pan | Toast coconut flakes for the signature snowy texture. |
Pro Tip:
To elevate your cooking experience, opt for non-stick cookware to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. A silicone spatula is also excellent for scraping sauces cleanly from bowls and pots.
Directions
Let’s transform simple ingredients into the beautiful and tasty “Snow on the Mountain”! Follow these clear steps to prepare this unique dish.
Prep
- Cook the rice: Prepare 2 cups of jasmine or basmati rice per package instructions. Ensure it’s light and fluffy. Set aside.
- Cook the chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 cups of diced, cooked chicken. Stir in 1 small diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes). Remove from heat.
- Make the sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine:
- 2 cans (10.5 oz each) of cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup of sour cream
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce (optional)
Stir occasionally and heat on low until warmed through and slightly thickened (about 5 minutes).
4. Prepare the toppings: Gather and prepare your toppings. Chop 1/2 cup of cashews, shred 1 cup of cheddar cheese, and toast 1/2 cup of sweetened coconut flakes. Dice 1/2 cup of pineapple and slice 2 green onions thinly.
Assemble
- Layer the rice: Spread the cooked rice evenly in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. This serves as the base of our mountain.
- Add the chicken mixture: Spoon the sautéed chicken, onion, and garlic evenly over the rice layer.
- Pour the sauce: Gently pour the warm, creamy mushroom sauce over the chicken layer. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring every corner is covered.
- Top it off: Sprinkle the cheddar cheese generously over the top, followed by the cashews, toasted coconut, diced pineapple, and sliced green onions.
| Ingredient Layers | Order |
|---|---|
| Base | Jasmine or basmati rice |
| First Layer | Chicken, onion, and garlic mixture |
| Sauce Layer | Cream of mushroom sauce with sour cream and chicken broth |
| Toppings | Shredded cheddar cheese, toasted coconut, chopped nuts, diced pineapple, and green onions |
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the dish uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Scoop into plates, ensuring each scoop includes a bit of every layer. Watch your guests marvel at this stunning creation that truly resembles a snow-capped mountain!
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing Snow on the Mountain in advance is a great way to save time and ensure a seamless dining experience. Here’s how to efficiently make this dish ahead of time while preserving its flavor and texture.
1. Cook and Prepare Ingredients
- Start by cooking the chicken and rice as directed in the recipe. Allow them to cool completely before storing.
- Prepare the creamy sauce by combining the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, chicken broth, and seasonings, then let it cool. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Chop and prepare any toppings such as green onions, cashews, toasted coconut, and pineapple. Store each in separate containers.
2. Layering the Dish for Refrigeration
- Use a glass or ceramic baking dish for best results. Begin by layering the cooked rice, chicken mixture, and cooled sauce. Don’t add toppings or cheese at this stage to maintain freshness.
- Tightly cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh. Refrigerate for up to 24-36 hours before baking.
3. Freezing Instructions (Optional for Long-Term Prep)
- Assemble the rice, chicken, and sauce components as mentioned above. Wrap the dish tightly with multiple layers of foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the dish with the freezing date and instructions: “Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, add toppings, and bake for another 5-10 minutes.”
- Frozen portions can be stored for up to 3 months.
| Storage Method | Preparation | Max Duration | Baking Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Assemble, exclude toppings | 24-36 hours | Bake directly at 350°F for 25 minutes. Add toppings and bake 5 more minutes. |
| Freezer | Assemble, exclude toppings | 3 months | Thaw overnight in fridge. Bake as above. |
4. Adding Fresh Toppings Before Baking
- Once the dish is thawed or removed from the refrigerator, sprinkle the reserved toasted coconut, cashews, cheese, and other toppings directly before baking. This preserves the crunch and enhances the final presentation.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to presenting Snow on the Mountain, the magic lies not just in its flavors but also in how we serve it. This dish offers versatility, making it suitable for casual family dinners, holiday feasts, or even lively potlucks. Here are some serving suggestions and tips to elevate this delightful dish:
Presentation Tips
- Layer and Garnish Artistically: Arrange the toppings in layers to enhance the “snow-capped mountain” effect. Sprinkle toasted coconut last to mimic the snowy peak, ensuring a stunning presentation.
- Individual Bowls for Guests: Serve the dish in broad, shallow bowls so the vibrant layers of rice and toppings remain visible. This makes every serving just as visually appealing as the centerpiece.
- Pair with Accompaniments: Include complementary side dishes like a light green salad, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables to balance the rich flavors.
Ideal Serving Portions
| Dish Component | Per Person Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked White Rice | 1 cup |
| Chicken Mixture | 1/2 cup to 3/4 cup |
| Sauce | 1/4 cup |
| Toppings (combined) | 1/4 cup |
We recommend arranging the table family-style, allowing guests to layer their Snow on the Mountain to their liking, encouraging creativity and customizable options.
Beverage Pairings
- For a refreshing contrast, serve with a lightly chilled glass of white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a non-alcoholic sparkling apple cider.
- Opt for a warm cup of jasmine tea or green tea if the occasion calls for something cozier.
- For kids, pair with pineapple juice served over ice to complement the tropical hints in the toppings.
Final Touches
- Place garnishes like extra chopped cashews, green onions, and toasted coconut in small bowls nearby for optional self-service, enabling guests to add their preferred ingredients.
- Use colorful serving platters and garnish edges with fresh parsley or cilantro for added brightness.
These serving ideas will ensure your Snow on the Mountain dish becomes the star of the table, offering both aesthetic and culinary satisfaction.
Storage And Reheating Tips
Proper storage and reheating are essential to maintaining the flavor and quality of our Snow on the Mountain dish. Whether you’re saving leftovers or preparing it ahead of time, follow these tips for the best results:
Storage Guidelines
- Refrigeration: Allow the dish to cool completely before storing. Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container to lock in freshness. Place it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, assemble the dish without adding fresh toppings (like cheese, nuts, or coconut). Wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Separation for Toppings: Store garnishes such as toasted coconut, nuts, pineapple, and fresh herbs separately in small airtight containers. This keeps them fresh and crunchy when reheated.
Reheating Instructions
Reheating properly ensures a hot and evenly warmed dish without compromising texture or taste. Here’s what we recommend:
For Refrigerated Leftovers
- Oven Method (Preferred):
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish if it wasn’t stored in one. Cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent drying.
- Reheat for 20-25 minutes, or until the dish is heated through and bubbly. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp the cheese on top.
- Microwave Method (Quick Option):
- Transfer a portion into a microwave-safe dish.
- Cover with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel to retain moisture.
- Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway for even reheating. Repeat if necessary.
For Frozen Portions
- Thawing:
- Move the frozen dish to the refrigerator overnight to thaw safely.
- Do not skip this step as reheating straight from frozen can lead to uneven cooking.
- Reheating in the Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove plastic wrap and foil, then re-cover with fresh aluminum foil.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes for a golden, crispy top.
- Microwave Method (For Small Portions):
- Thaw the portion as above.
- Reheat in the microwave on medium power for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Always reheat only the amount you plan to eat to maintain freshness for future servings.
- If reheating the entire dish, consider re-adding fresh toppings like shredded cheese or toasted coconut during the last 5 minutes in the oven. This enhances the presentation and flavor.
- To restore moisture to refrigerated or frozen leftovers, drizzle a small amount of chicken broth or water over the top before reheating.
- Avoid overheating in the microwave to prevent the sauce from separating or becoming overly dry.
| Storage Option | Container/Method | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Airtight container | Up to 3-4 days |
| Freezing | Plastic wrap + foil | Up to 3 months |
| Toppings Storage | Separate small airtight containers | As per topping type |
Conclusion
“Snow on the Mountain” isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience that brings creativity and comfort to the table. Its blend of flavors, customizable toppings, and stunning presentation make it a standout choice for any occasion.
With the right preparation and tools, this recipe transforms into a memorable centerpiece that’s as satisfying to eat as it is to admire. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this dish offers a perfect balance of taste and visual appeal.
Let’s embrace the joy of cooking and create something truly special with “Snow on the Mountain.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is “Snow on the Mountain”?
“Snow on the Mountain” is a delightful dish that combines savory rice, chicken, creamy sauce, and sweet toppings like coconut and pineapple. Its layered presentation resembles a snow-capped mountain, making it both visually stunning and delicious.
What ingredients are needed for this dish?
Key ingredients include cooked white rice, diced chicken, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, toasted coconut, green onions, and optional toppings like cashews or pineapple for customization.
Can I customize the recipe?
Absolutely! You can personalize the dish by adding your favorite toppings, like nuts or diced fruits, to suit your family’s tastes and texture preferences.
What type of rice works best?
Jasmine or basmati rice is recommended due to their fragrant aroma and fluffy texture, which complements the dish perfectly.
What tools do I need to make “Snow on the Mountain”?
Basic tools include a rice cooker, large skillet, medium saucepan, baking dish, mixing bowls, a chopping board, a sharp knife, and a cheese grater.
How is the dish assembled?
Start by layering cooked rice, followed by the chicken mixture, creamy sauce, and toppings like cheese, coconut, and nuts. Bake until golden and bubbly.
Can I prepare the dish ahead of time?
Yes. You can cook the chicken and rice, prepare the sauce, and store the components separately. Assemble and bake just before serving for the best results.
How should I store leftovers?
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Store toppings separately to maintain their crunch and texture.
Can the dish be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the layered dish (without toppings) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, adding fresh toppings before serving.
How do I reheat “Snow on the Mountain”?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or use a microwave for individual portions. Add fresh toppings after reheating for the best presentation and flavor.
What are some serving suggestions?
Serve in shallow bowls to highlight the layers, and pair with complementary sides like a fresh salad or garlic bread. Drinks like white wine or jasmine tea work well with this dish.
Is “Snow on the Mountain” suitable for gatherings?
Absolutely! Its striking presentation and crowd-pleasing flavors make it perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or holiday meals. Guests will love both its taste and appearance.