Riz bil Kousa wa Fattoush

Riz bil Kousa wa Fattoush is a delightful Lebanese rice dish featuring tender zucchini and fresh herbs, paired with a vibrant and tangy Fattoush salad. This gluten-free meal is not only satisfying but also packed with flavors and nutrients.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 150 grams
• Zucchini - 2 medium-sized (about 300 grams)
• Onion - 1 small, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Vegetable broth - 400 ml
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Fresh parsley - 30 grams, chopped
• Fresh mint - 15 grams, chopped
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Tomato - 1 medium, diced
• Cucumber - 1 small, diced
• Radishes - 4, thinly sliced
• Pita bread - 1 piece (for Fattoush, optional)
• Lemon juice - 2 tablespoons
• Sumac - 1 teaspoon

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 medium pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent.
3. Add the diced zucchini to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes until slightly softened.
4. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pot, stirring to combine with the vegetables.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth, add salt and black pepper, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
6. While the rice cooks, prepare the Fattoush salad. In a bowl, combine the diced tomato, cucumber, sliced radishes, chopped parsley, and mint.
7. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, remaining olive oil, and sumac. Pour over the salad and toss to combine.
8. If using pita bread, cut it into triangles and toast it until golden and crispy. Add it to the salad just before serving.
9. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and serve it warm alongside the Fattoush salad.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 10 g
• Carbs: 70 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 500 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables.
• Provides a good source of fiber which aids digestion.

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