Riz bil Kousa wa Kebbeh

Riz bil Kousa wa Kebbeh is a delightful Lebanese dish featuring flavorful rice cooked with zucchini and topped with spiced meat patties. This gluten-free version preserves the authentic taste while ensuring a wholesome meal.

Ingredients

• Long-grain rice - 1 cup
• Zucchini - 2 medium, grated
• Ground beef or lamb - 200 grams
• Onion - 1 small, finely chopped
• Pine nuts - 2 tablespoons
• Cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon
• Allspice - 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Water - 2 cups
• Fresh parsley - for garnish

Steps

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak it in water for 30 minutes.
2. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add the ground meat to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the cinnamon, allspice, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. In another pot, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the grated zucchini and cook for 5 minutes until soft.
6. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pot with zucchini, stirring to combine. Pour in 2 cups of water and bring to a boil.
7. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is cooked and water is absorbed.
8. While the rice is cooking, toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
9. To serve, fluff the rice with a fork and plate it. Top with the spiced meat mixture and sprinkle with toasted pine nuts and fresh parsley.

Nutrition

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 25 g
• Carbs: 60 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 70 mg
• Total Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in protein from meat for muscle maintenance.
• High in fiber from zucchini and rice for digestive health.

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