Riz Bil Kousa wa Fawda

Riz Bil Kousa wa Fawda is a delightful Lebanese vegetarian rice dish featuring zucchini and chickpeas, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. It's a comforting and nutritious meal that celebrates the essence of Mediterranean cuisine.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 150 grams
• Zucchini - 2 medium-sized, diced
• Chickpeas - 200 grams, canned or cooked
• Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Vegetable broth - 400 milliliters
• Cumin - 1 teaspoon
• Cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Fresh parsley - for garnish

Steps

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak it in warm water for 15 minutes.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Stir in the diced zucchini, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the zucchini softens.
5. Add the chickpeas to the pot and stir to combine with the vegetables.
6. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pot, mixing it well with the vegetable mixture.
7. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
8. Fluff the rice with a fork, adjust the seasoning if necessary, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 400
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbs: 65 g
• Fiber: 12 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 450 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in fiber, promoting digestive health.
• Contains plant-based protein, supporting muscle health.

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