Carrot, Spinach And Rice Stew

Ingredients

1/2 pound carrots, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch dice
1/2 cup long-grain rice, like Basmati
Salt and pepper
1 pound spinach, roughly chopped, fresh, thick stems removed, washed and
3 cloves garlic, minced, optional
2 tablespoons butter, optional

Directions

Combine carrots with 6 cups of water in a saucepan and turn heat to high.
Bring to a boil, then stir in rice and a large pinch of salt.
When the mixture returns to the boil, add spinach, then adjust heat so that it simmers gently.
Cook, stirring occasionally, until the rice and carrots are very tender, about 1/2 hour, and the mixture takes on the consistency of a thick stew.
Stir in garlic or butter (if you're using either or both), and cook another 5 minutes.
Taste and adjust seasoning and serve.