Riz bil Sabanekh

Riz bil Sabanekh is a hearty Lebanese rice dish that combines fluffy basmati rice with nutrient-rich spinach and aromatic spices, making it a deliciously wholesome meal. Perfectly seasoned and high in protein, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 1 cup
• Fresh spinach - 200 grams
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon
• Allspice - 1/4 teaspoon
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
• Vegetable broth - 2 cups
• Lemon juice - 1 tablespoon
• Chickpeas - 1 can (400 grams), drained and rinsed
• Pine nuts - 2 tablespoons, toasted

Steps

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak it in water for 30 minutes and drain.
2. In a medium pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the drained rice, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and black pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes to toast the rice slightly.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
6. While the rice is cooking, heat a separate pan over medium heat, add the spinach, and sauté until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
7. Add the drained chickpeas and lemon juice to the spinach, mixing well to combine, and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
8. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and gently mix in the spinach and chickpea mixture.
9. Serve the rice topped with toasted pine nuts for an added crunch.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 15 g
• Carbs: 70 g
• Fiber: 12 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• High in protein from chickpeas, promoting muscle growth and maintenance.
• Rich in iron and vitamins from spinach, supporting overall health and immunity.

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