Discover Authentic Lebanese Rice Recipe

When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? For me, it’s a steaming bowl of Lebanese rice that fills the kitchen with aromas so enticing they might just make your neighbors jealous. Imagine fluffy grains coated in fragrant spices like cinnamon and allspice—each bite is a delightful dance on your tongue. Who knew rice could bring such joy?

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This dish isn’t just about taste; it’s steeped in memories. Picture a family gathering where laughter fills the air and everyone huddles around the table, eagerly anticipating the meal. That’s when this Lebanese rice takes center stage, transforming an ordinary dinner into a cherished occasion. Get ready to savor flavors that will have you counting down the minutes until dinner time!

I remember the first time I made this dish; my family thought I had become a culinary wizard overnight!

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; rinse thoroughly before cooking.
• Vegetable Oil: Use a neutral oil like canola or sunflower for sautéing; avoid strong flavors that overpower spices.
• Onion: Dice one large onion finely; sauté until translucent for sweetness and depth in flavor.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add aroma; use about three cloves minced for maximum impact.
• Cinnamon Stick: A whole stick infuses warmth into the rice; remove it before serving for a subtle hint of spice.
• Allspice Powder: Just half a teaspoon adds an exotic flair without overwhelming the dish.
• Salt: Essential for bringing out flavors; adjust according to your taste preferences.
• Water or Broth: Use vegetable broth for extra flavor; ensure it’s hot to cook the rice evenly.

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

Let’s Make it together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by rinsing 1 cup of basmati rice under cold water until it runs clear—this removes excess starch and prevents clumping during cooking.

Sauté Aromatics: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Once hot, toss in the diced onion and sauté until they turn golden brown and fragrant.

Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic along with 1 cinnamon stick and ½ teaspoon allspice powder. Sauté briefly until everything is aromatic but be careful not to burn the garlic.

Add Rice and Liquid: Pour in the rinsed basmati rice and stir well to coat with oil and spices. Then add 1¾ cups of hot vegetable broth (or water) along with salt to taste.

Simmer Away!: Bring everything to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover tightly with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until all liquid is absorbed.

Fluff and Serve!: After cooking time is up, remove from heat but keep covered for an additional 5 minutes. Finally, fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving; enjoy its unparalleled aroma!

This Lebanese rice transforms any meal into something special while remaining simple enough for everyday dinners. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or serving alongside grilled kebabs or roasted vegetables, this dish will surely impress!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by rinsing the rice well to remove excess starch, which helps achieve that fluffy texture. Sauté onions and spices before adding the rice for maximum flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize with proteins like chicken or chickpeas, or add vegetables such as peas and carrots for extra nutrition and color.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Lebanese rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.

Cooking Lebanese rice always brings back fond memories of family gatherings where everyone would gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter over delicious food.

FAQ

How do I achieve fluffy Lebanese rice?

Rinse the rice until the water runs clear and avoid overcrowding the pot.

Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but remember that brown rice will require a longer cooking time.

What dishes pair well with Lebanese rice?

Lebanese rice complements grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even stews beautifully.

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Authentic Lebanese Rice

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• Author: deleciouscorner
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Discover the delightful flavors of Lebanese rice, a simple yet aromatic dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup long-grain basmati rice
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cinnamon stick
• ½ teaspoon allspice powder
• Salt to taste
• 1¾ cups hot vegetable broth

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Instructions

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until clear to remove excess starch.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion until golden brown.
3. Add minced garlic, cinnamon stick, and allspice powder. Stir briefly until fragrant.
4. Add the rinsed rice to the pan, stirring to coat with oil and spices.
5. Pour in hot vegetable broth and add salt to taste. Bring to a boil.
6. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
7. Remove from heat and let sit covered for an additional 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Lebanese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg