Delicious Lebanese Rice Recipe for Any Occasion

Name: Delicious Lebanese Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Lebanese
Ingredients: 1 cup basmati rice; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cinnamon stick; 4 cardamom pods, crushed; 2 cups vegetable broth; Salt and pepper, to taste; ¼ cup toasted pine nuts or almonds (for garnish); Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Published: March 23, 2025

by mydishtoday

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Lebanese rice recipe is incredibly simple to whip up without sacrificing flavor
The blend of spices creates an aromatic experience that’s visually stunning too
Perfectly complements grilled meats or veggies for a versatile side dish
Ideal for family gatherings or casual dinners alike!

I once made this dish for my family, and they couldn’t stop raving about it for weeks—who knew I had such culinary prowess?

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Basmati Rice: Choose long-grain basmati for its fluffy texture and nutty flavor—always rinse it before cooking!
Olive Oil: A good-quality extra virgin olive oil elevates the flavors; don’t skimp on this!
Onion: Finely chopped onions add sweetness and depth; sauté until golden brown for the best results.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves minced will give your dish that extra zing everyone loves.
Cinnamon Stick: Just one stick infuses the rice with warmth; remove it after cooking.
Cardamom Pods: These little powerhouses add complexity—lightly crush them before adding to release their oils.
Vegetable Broth or Water: Choose flavorful vegetable broth instead of water for enhanced taste.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning can transform any dish; use to taste for that perfect balance.
Pine Nuts or Almonds: Toasted nuts provide crunch and richness; sprinkle them on right before serving.
Fresh Parsley or Cilantro: Chopped fresh herbs add color and freshness; garnish generously!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare the Rice: Start by rinsing 1 cup of basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch, ensuring fluffy grains later on.

Sauté Aromatics: Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent. The aroma will be divine!

Add Garlic and Spices: Once the onions are ready, toss in 3 minced garlic cloves along with 1 cinnamon stick and 4 crushed cardamom pods. Sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds.

Add Rice: Stir in the rinsed basmati rice, coating each grain with oil and spices. Toasting it lightly enhances its nutty flavor—about 2-3 minutes should do!

Pour in Broth: Carefully add 2 cups of vegetable broth (or water) along with salt and pepper to taste. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat to low.

Simmer Away: Cover the saucepan tightly and simmer for about 15-20 minutes until all liquid is absorbed. Resist peeking—you want all that steam inside!

Once done, fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving. Top it off with toasted pine nuts or almonds along with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for an added burst of freshness.

Now go ahead and enjoy your beautifully cooked Lebanese rice alongside your favorite grilled meats or roasted vegetables! Each bite will transport you straight to a bustling market in Lebanon filled with exotic aromas.

In closing, I hope this delightful journey into cooking Lebanese rice brings joy not just to your plate but also to your heart—because let’s face it, nothing beats sharing delicious food among friends and family!

You Must Know

Lebanese rice is a delightful dish that elevates any meal
Its fluffy texture and aromatic spices create a comforting experience
Whether served as a side or main dish, the vibrant flavors will transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by rinsing the rice thoroughly; this removes excess starch and prevents stickiness. Sauté onions in butter until golden before adding spices for maximum flavor infusion. Then, combine everything and let it simmer gently.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize with nuts like almonds or pine nuts for added crunch. You can also swap white rice for brown for a healthier option or toss in some fresh herbs to brighten the dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Lebanese rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in the microwave with a splash of water to restore moisture and fluffiness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To elevate your Lebanese rice, always use high-quality basmati for the best aroma and texture
Toasting the rice lightly before cooking enhances its nutty flavor significantly
A squeeze of lemon at serving brightens up the whole dish beautifully!

I remember serving Lebanese rice at a family gathering, and everyone raved about how fluffy it was! My aunt even asked if I had secret powers in the kitchen—it felt like I’d won a cooking award!

FAQ

What type of rice is best for Lebanese rice?

Basmati rice is traditionally used for its fluffy texture and fragrant aroma.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply replace any meat broth with vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian option.

How can I add more flavor to my Lebanese rice?

Incorporate spices like cinnamon or allspice, or add sautéed vegetables for extra flavor.

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