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Greek Rice

Greek Rice is a delightful and simple dish that brings vibrant flavors to your meal, perfect for pairing with grilled meats or enjoying on its own.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Calories: 220
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For cooking
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided Two tablespoons for cooking and two for adding at the end
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic Freshly minced
  • 1.5 cups basmati rice Rinsed in cold water before cooking
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 0.75 teaspoon fine sea salt Adjust to taste
  • 0.5 teaspoon pepper Adjust to taste
  • 1.25 cups chicken stock or broth Can substitute with vegetable broth for vegetarian option
  • 1 cup water
For flavor
  • 2 large lemons Zest and juice required
  • 1 teaspoon zest From the lemons
  • 4 tablespoons juice From the lemons
  • 3 tablespoons finely chopped flat-leaf parsley Optional but recommended
  • 3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill Optional

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a small pot over medium heat. Once melted, add minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Add the basmati rice to the pot and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently until most grains are slightly translucent.
  3. Mix in garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Cooking
  1. Add chicken stock or broth, water, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
  2. Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover with a lid. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes until liquid is absorbed, checking at 12 minutes without lifting the lid too often.
  3. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 10 minutes.
  4. After resting, remove lid and fluff the rice with a fork.
Finishing Touches
  1. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and parsley or dill if using. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a pan with water to restore moisture. Rinse rice before cooking for fluffiness, and consider adding feta cheese for creaminess.