Description
Mediterranean-inspired lemon rice pilaf dances with zesty citrus and delicate herbs, promising a refreshing culinary journey. Fragrant basmati rice mingles with bright lemon, creating a light yet satisfying side dish you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups basmati rice, well rinsed and drained
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup water
Aromatics and Seasonings:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 3/4 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill or parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried)
Finishing Ingredients:
- 12 tablespoons (170 grams) butter, or more to taste
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Extra lemon juice, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare a large saucepan with olive oil, heating it to a gentle shimmer over medium-high temperature. Introduce finely chopped onions and sauté until translucent and softened, releasing their delicate aromatics.
- Incorporate basmati rice, minced garlic, and vibrant lemon zest into the pan. Gently toast the ingredients for approximately one minute, allowing the grains to become fragrant and slightly golden.
- Carefully pour chicken broth, water, freshly squeezed lemon juice, salt, and selected spices into the pan. Thoroughly blend the liquid components, ensuring an even distribution of seasonings.
- Elevate the mixture to a rolling boil, then immediately reduce the heat to its lowest setting. Securely cover the pan and allow the rice to simmer gently, transforming into a fluffy pilaf. Midway through cooking, perform a single careful stir to prevent potential sticking.
- After the recommended cooking duration, remove the pan from heat. Let the rice rest, covered, for ten minutes to absorb remaining moisture and intensify its flavor profile.
- Uncover and fluff the rice with a fork, creating light, separated grains. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, potentially adding extra lemon juice or a pat of butter for enhanced richness. Optional: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top for a tangy Mediterranean touch.
Notes
- Customize the heat level by adjusting spices like red pepper flakes or adding a pinch of cayenne for extra kick.
- Opt for vegetable broth to transform this into a vegetarian-friendly dish that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
- Toast rice grains thoroughly to enhance nutty undertones and prevent mushy texture, ensuring each grain remains separate and fluffy.
- Make it gluten-free by confirming your broth and seasonings are certified gluten-free, perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg