Riz bil Kousa w Lahme

Riz bil Kousa w Lahme is a hearty Lebanese rice dish featuring tender zucchini and spiced ground meat, delivering a delightful blend of flavors and textures. This high-protein meal is perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 150 grams
• Ground lamb or beef - 200 grams
• Zucchini - 2 medium (about 300 grams)
• Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped (about 100 grams)
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Tomato paste - 1 tablespoon
• Cinnamon powder - 1/2 teaspoon
• Allspice - 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Water - 400 milliliters
• Fresh parsley - for garnish

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 olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and ground meat to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking up the meat with a spatula, about 7-10 minutes.
4. Stir in tomato paste, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes until the spices are fragrant.
5. While the meat mixture cooks, wash and trim the zucchini. Cut them into thin slices or half-moons.
6. Add the zucchini to the meat mixture and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until they begin to soften.
7. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the skillet, stirring well to combine with the meat and vegetables.
8. Pour in the water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until rice is cooked and water is absorbed.
9. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes before fluffing the rice with a fork.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Nutrition

• Calories: 540
• Protein: 25 g
• Carbs: 70 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 70 mg
• Total Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
• Water: 0.4 L

Health Benefits

• High in protein, supporting muscle health and repair.
• Rich in vitamins and minerals from zucchini and parsley, promoting overall health.

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