Kleftiko Rice

Kleftiko Rice is a flavorful vegan dish inspired by traditional Greek cuisine, featuring fragrant rice cooked with aromatic herbs, vegetables, and a hint of lemon. This comforting meal is both hearty and satisfying, perfect for a cozy dinner.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 150 grams
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Carrot - 1 medium, diced
• Red bell pepper - 1 medium, diced
• Zucchini - 1 medium, diced
• Cherry tomatoes - 200 grams, halved
• Vegetable broth - 400 ml
• Dried oregano - 1 teaspoon
• Dried thyme - 1 teaspoon
• Lemon juice - 2 tablespoons
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Fresh parsley - for garnish

Steps

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak it in water for about 15 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and diced carrot, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Stir in the diced red bell pepper and zucchini, cooking for another 5 minutes until they soften.
5. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper, mixing well to combine.
6. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the saucepan, stirring it with the vegetables for 1-2 minutes.
7. Pour in the vegetable broth and lemon juice, bringing the mixture to a boil.
8. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
9. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes.
10. Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Nutrition

• Calories: 370
• Protein: 8 g
• Carbs: 65 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Water: 0.4 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in antioxidants from tomatoes and peppers.
• High in fiber, aiding digestion and promoting satiety.

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