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Mediterranean Rice Recipe

Mediterranean Rice Recipe: Fluffy, Flavorful, and Nutty Delight

Experience the delightful Mediterranean Rice Recipe, a versatile dish that complements various meals with its fluffy texture and aromatic spices.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Rice
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice Rinse until water runs clear
  • 2.75 cups water Can use broth for flavor
For the Flavor Base
  • 2 tbsp butter Divided; olive oil is a dairy-free alternative
  • 1 medium onion Diced; can substitute with shallots
  • 3 cloves garlic Minced; pre-minced can be used
  • 1 tsp ground cumin Warm, earthy flavor; adjust to taste
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder Gives vibrant color; can be omitted
  • salt & pepper To taste
For the Crunch
  • 0.25 cup roasted pine nuts Can substitute with walnuts or almonds
  • 0.25 cup fresh parsley Chopped; cilantro or mint can be used

Equipment

  • heavy-bottomed pot
  • Fine-mesh strainer
  • Separate pan

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Rinse the rice under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear, which usually takes about 1-2 minutes. Set aside to drain.
  2. In a heavy-bottomed pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 3-5 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 more minute.
  3. Stir in the rinsed rice, ground cumin, and turmeric, allowing spices to coat the grains for about 1 minute. Then add water or broth and stir gently. Increase heat to bring to boil.
  4. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time.
  5. Remove pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the rice gently with a fork.
  6. In a separate pan, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and add roasted pine nuts. Toast for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
  7. Fold the toasted pine nuts into the rice, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley and gently mix to combine.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 5gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Rinsing the rice thoroughly prevents stickiness and enhances fluffiness. Substitute water with broth for richer flavor.

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