Riz Bi Hala

Riz Bi Hala is a fragrant Lebanese rice dish that combines the subtle flavors of spices with the richness of sautéed onions and nuts. This gluten-free dish is perfect as a side or a light main course, showcasing the essence of Lebanese cuisine.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 150 grams
• Water - 300 milliliters
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon
• Allspice - 1/4 teaspoon
• Pine nuts - 30 grams
• Almonds - 30 grams, slivered
• Fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped for garnish

Steps

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak it in warm water for 20 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Stir in the soaked and drained rice, salt, black pepper, cinnamon, and allspice. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently to coat the rice with the oil and spices.
5. Pour in the water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed.
6. While the rice is cooking, in a small skillet, toast the pine nuts and slivered almonds over medium heat until golden brown, about 3-5 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
7. Once the rice is done, fluff it with a fork and fold in the toasted nuts.
8. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

Nutrition

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 9 g
• Carbs: 60 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Water: 0.3 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in carbohydrates, providing a good source of energy.
• Contains healthy fats from olive oil and nuts, beneficial for heart health.

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