Middle Eastern Brown Rice Recipes

August 29, 2023 Post a Comment

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Description

Middle Eastern cuisine is known for its flavorful and aromatic dishes, and brown rice is a staple in this region. Brown rice is a healthier alternative to white rice as it is packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. This versatile grain can be used in a variety of Middle Eastern dishes, from pilafs to salads. In this article, we will explore some delicious Middle Eastern brown rice recipes that you can easily make at home.

Prep Time and Cook Time

The prep time for these recipes ranges from 10-15 minutes, while the cook time ranges from 20-45 minutes, depending on the recipe.

Ingredients

The ingredients for Middle Eastern brown rice recipes vary, but some common ones include: - Brown rice - Olive oil - Onions - Garlic - Spices (such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cinnamon) - Vegetables (such as carrots, peas, and bell peppers) - Nuts (such as almonds and pine nuts) - Dried fruits (such as raisins and apricots) - Chicken or vegetable broth - Lemon juice - Parsley or cilantro

Equipment

To make these recipes, you will need: - A large pot with a lid - A wooden spoon or spatula - A cutting board and a sharp knife - Measuring cups and spoons - A colander (for rinsing the rice) - A serving dish

Method

Here are some Middle Eastern brown rice recipes to try:

1. Middle Eastern Brown Rice Pilaf

- Rinse 1 cup of brown rice in a colander and drain. - Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. - Add 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 2-3 minutes. - Add 1 teaspoon each of ground cumin, coriander, and turmeric and stir for 30 seconds. - Add the rice and stir for 2-3 minutes until coated with the spices. - Add 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a boil. - Reduce heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and simmer for 40-45 minutes. - Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in 1/4 cup of chopped parsley or cilantro before serving.

2. Middle Eastern Brown Rice Salad

- Rinse 1 cup of brown rice in a colander and drain. - Add the rice to a pot with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. - Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. - Simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. - Transfer the rice to a large bowl and let it cool. - Add 1 diced red bell pepper, 1 diced cucumber, 1/2 cup of chopped parsley, and 1/2 cup of chopped mint to the bowl. - In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin. - Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. - Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

- To add some sweetness to the pilaf, you can stir in 1/2 cup of raisins or chopped dried apricots in the last 10 minutes of cooking. - You can substitute the vegetables in the salad with your favorites, such as cherry tomatoes, olives, or grated carrots. - You can also add some protein to the salad, such as chickpeas or grilled chicken.

Nutrition Info

One cup of cooked brown rice contains approximately: - 218 calories - 5 grams of protein - 1.8 grams of fat - 45 grams of carbohydrates - 3.5 grams of fiber - 0 grams of sugar

Recipe Tips

- To enhance the flavor of the rice, you can toast it in a dry pan for a few minutes before adding it to the pot. - You can also use a rice cooker to make the rice, following the manufacturer's instructions. - Leftover rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.