Riz Bil Kharouf Mahshi

Riz Bil Kharouf Mahshi is a delightful Lebanese dish featuring spiced rice stuffed with tender lamb, offering a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. This gluten-free recipe is perfect for a comforting meal that showcases the rich culinary traditions of Lebanon.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 150 grams
• Lamb shoulder, ground - 250 grams
• Onion, finely chopped - 1 medium (about 150 grams)
• Garlic, minced - 2 cloves
• Ground cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon
• Ground allspice - 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Tomato paste - 2 tablespoons
• Water - 400 ml
• Fresh parsley, chopped - 2 tablespoons
• Pine nuts, toasted - 2 tablespoons
• Lemon, for serving - 1

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 to the skillet and sauté for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
4. In a bowl, combine the ground lamb, sautéed onions, garlic, ground cinnamon, allspice, salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley. Mix well until fully combined.
5. In a separate pot, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the soaked and drained rice, stirring for 2-3 minutes until slightly toasted.
6. Add the tomato paste and water to the rice pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked and water is absorbed.
7. While the rice is cooking, shape the lamb mixture into small balls or patties, about the size of a golf ball.
8. In a separate frying pan, heat a little olive oil and cook the lamb balls until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.
9. Once the rice is done, fluff it with a fork and gently fold in the toasted pine nuts.
10. To serve, place a bed of rice on each plate and top with the lamb balls. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish before enjoying.

Nutrition

• Calories: 650
• Protein: 30 g
• Carbs: 70 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 80 mg
• Total Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
• Water: 0.4 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in protein from the lamb, supporting muscle growth and repair.
• Contains antioxidants from spices and herbs that may enhance overall health.

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