Riz Bil Kousa Wa Manakish

Riz Bil Kousa Wa Manakish is a delightful Lebanese rice dish featuring tender zucchini and aromatic spices, served with a side of flavorful flatbread. This comforting meal brings together the best of Lebanese cuisine, perfect for a cozy dinner.

Ingredients

• Long-grain rice - 150 grams
• Zucchini - 2 medium-sized, grated
• Onion - 1 small, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Ground cumin - 1 teaspoon
• Ground cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Water - 300 milliliters
• Pita bread - 2 pieces

Steps

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak it in water for 20 minutes.
2. In a medium pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent.
3. Add the grated zucchini to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
4. Stir in the cumin, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
5. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pot, stirring to combine with the zucchini mixture.
6. Pour in the 300 milliliters of water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is cooked and water is absorbed.
7. While the rice is cooking, preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F) and place the pita bread on a baking sheet. Bake for 5-7 minutes until slightly crispy.
8. Once the rice is done, remove from heat and fluff with a fork. Stir in the chopped parsley.
9. Serve the Riz Bil Kousa warm, accompanied by the baked pita bread.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 9 g
• Carbs: 70 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 550 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Water: 0.3 L

Health Benefits

• Zucchini is low in calories and high in nutrients, promoting digestive health.
• Olive oil is rich in healthy fats and antioxidants, supporting heart health.

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