Riz Bil Bzar

Riz Bil Bzar is a fragrant vegan Lebanese rice dish, infused with warm spices and colorful vegetables, making it a delightful and wholesome meal. Perfectly paired with fresh herbs, this dish celebrates the rich flavors of Lebanese cuisine.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 150 grams
• Vegetable broth - 400 milliliters
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Carrot - 1 medium, diced
• Bell pepper - 1 medium, diced
• Green peas - 100 grams (fresh or frozen)
• Cumin powder - 1 teaspoon
• Cinnamon powder - 1/2 teaspoon
• Allspice - 1/4 teaspoon
• 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 15 minutes before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Stir in the diced carrot and bell pepper, cooking for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
5. Add the soaked and drained rice to the pan, stirring to combine with the vegetables. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to lightly toast the rice.
6. Add the vegetable broth, cumin, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
7. Cover the saucepan and simmer for 15 minutes until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
8. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the green peas on top of the rice and re-cover to allow them to steam.
9. Once done, fluff the rice with a fork and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your Riz Bil Bzar!

Nutrition

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 8 g
• Carbs: 68 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 350 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Water: 0.4 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in fiber, promoting digestive health.
• Packed with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables.

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