Riz Bil Kefta

Riz Bil Kefta is a flavorful vegan Lebanese rice dish featuring spiced lentil balls served over fragrant rice. This comforting meal is rich in plant-based protein and aromatic spices, perfect for a cozy dinner.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 1 cup
• Water - 2 cups
• Red lentils - 1/2 cup
• Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Parsley - 1/4 cup, finely chopped
• Ground cumin - 1 teaspoon
• Ground coriander - 1 teaspoon
• Cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Tomato - 1 medium, diced
• Lemon - 1, juiced
• Pine nuts - 2 tablespoons, toasted (optional)

Steps

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak it in water for 20 minutes.
2. In a pot, combine red lentils with 2 cups of water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the lentils are soft. Drain and let cool slightly.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, half of the chopped onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and form into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
4. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the lentil balls and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and the rest of the chopped onion. Sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the diced tomato and cook for another 3 minutes.
6. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the skillet with the sautéed onion and tomato. Stir well to coat the rice with the flavors.
7. Add 2 cups of water to the rice mixture and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed.
8. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve topped with the lentil balls. Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle with toasted pine nuts if desired.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 16 g
• Carbs: 72 g
• Fiber: 15 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 500 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 11 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in plant-based protein from lentils, supporting muscle health.
• High in dietary fiber, promoting digestive health.

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