Riz Bil Kefta Wa Khodra

Riz Bil Kefta Wa Khodra is a hearty Lebanese rice dish that combines spiced ground meat and fresh vegetables, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures. This gluten-free recipe is perfect for a comforting meal that brings the taste of the Mediterranean to your table.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 1 cup
• Water - 2 cups
• Ground beef or lamb - 250 grams
• Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Tomato - 1 medium, diced
• Bell pepper - 1 medium, diced
• Zucchini - 1 medium, diced
• Cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon
• Allspice - 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Pine nuts - 2 tablespoons, toasted

Steps

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak it in water for 30 minutes.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and ground meat to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Stir in the cinnamon, allspice, salt, and black pepper. Add the diced tomato, bell pepper, and zucchini, and cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
5. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped parsley. Set aside.
6. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the boiling water. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
7. Fluff the rice with a fork and mix in the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Serve the rice topped with the kefta and vegetable mixture, and garnish with toasted pine nuts.

Nutrition

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 30 g
• Carbs: 58 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 80 mg
• Total Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• High in protein, supporting muscle health and repair.
• Rich in vegetables, providing essential vitamins and minerals.

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