Riz aux Poireaux

Riz aux Poireaux is a comforting French rice dish featuring tender leeks and aromatic herbs, creating a delicate yet flavorful experience. This vegetarian dish is perfect as a side or a light main meal, showcasing the simplicity of French cuisine.

Ingredients

• Arborio rice - 150 g
• Leeks - 2 medium, cleaned and sliced
• Vegetable broth - 500 ml
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Butter - 1 tablespoon
• Shallots - 2, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Thyme - 1 teaspoon, fresh or dried
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Parmesan cheese - 30 g, grated (optional)
• Fresh parsley - for garnish

Steps

1. In a medium saucepan, heat the vegetable broth over low heat and keep it warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped shallots and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
3. Add the sliced leeks and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for another 5-7 minutes until the leeks are soft and fragrant.
4. Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors.
5. Add the thyme and a pinch of salt and pepper, then gradually add the warm vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, stirring continuously until the liquid is absorbed before adding more.
6. Continue this process for about 18-20 minutes until the rice is creamy and al dente.
7. Once cooked, remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese if using. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
8. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 10 g
• Carbs: 70 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 20 mg
• Total Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Leeks are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, promoting eye health and immune function.
• Arborio rice is a gluten-free whole grain that provides energy and is rich in essential nutrients.

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