Recipe - Greek Lemon Rice

If you're in the mood for a side dish that's bursting with bright, citrusy flavors and a touch of Mediterranean charm, Greek Lemon Rice is the perfect choice. This classic Greek recipe is not only incredibly delicious but also surprisingly quick and easy to prepare. In this article, we'll explore the origins of Greek Lemon Rice and provide you with a step-by-step guide to making it in no time.

The Origin of Greek Lemon Rice

Greek cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, and Greek Lemon Rice is no exception. Known as "Rizi me Lemoni" in Greek, this dish is a staple in Mediterranean households. It's often served as a side dish alongside various Greek main courses, from grilled meats to seafood.

Preparation Time

One of the remarkable features of Greek Lemon Rice is its short preparation time. From start to finish, you can expect to have this delightful side dish ready to serve in about 30 minutes. This makes it a convenient option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions when you want to impress your guests.

Ingredients

To prepare Greek Lemon Rice for about 4 servings, gather the following ingredients:

1 cup of long-grain white rice
2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
Zest and juice of 2 lemons
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 bay leaves
1/4 cup of fresh dill, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Method

- Begin by rinsing the rice thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch. Drain well and set aside.

- In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

- Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and continue to sauté for another 2-3 minutes. This helps to lightly toast the rice grains, enhancing their flavor.

- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

- Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the rice simmer for about 15-18 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed, and the rice is tender.

- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes.

- After resting, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.

- Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and freshly chopped dill to the rice. Gently fold these ingredients into the rice, allowing the flavors to meld.

- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and discard the bay leaves.

- Serve your Greek Lemon Rice as a vibrant side dish or as a bed for grilled meats, fish, or vegetables.