Delicious Lebanese Rice Recipe for Every Occasion

Name: Delicious Lebanese Rice Recipe for Every Occasion
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Lebanese
Ingredients: 1 cup long grain rice (preferably basmati); 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon ground allspice; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth; ¼ cup toasted pine nuts (optional)

Posted on March 23, 2025

The warm aroma of spices wafts through the air, tickling your senses as you dream of perfectly fluffy grains dancing on your plate. Lebanese rice is like a comforting hug in a bowl each bite bursting with flavor and warmth, making it impossible not to smile.

Picture this you’re gathered around the table with family and friends, laughter ringing in the air as everyone digs into a feast that includes this delightful dish. Memories of cozy gatherings flash through your mind as you savor each bite, knowing that this Lebanese rice is bound to become a favorite at every get-together.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Lebanese rice shines not only for its incredible taste but also for its ease of preparation
It’s visually stunning and enhances any meal’s appeal
Versatile enough to pair with various main dishes, it’s sure to impress your guests

I vividly remember one family dinner where I made this dish; my uncle couldn’t stop raving about how it reminded him of his travels in Lebanon.

Essential Ingredients

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

Long Grain Rice: I prefer basmati for its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture when cooked properly.
Vegetable Oil or Butter: Choose based on your preference; butter adds richness while oil keeps it lighter.
Onion: A finely chopped onion caramelizes beautifully and adds depth of flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves minced finely elevate the taste profile significantly.
Spices (Cinnamon, Allspice): These warm spices bring out a lovely aromatic note that makes the dish irresistible.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing all those delightful flavors.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Using broth instead of water infuses rich flavor into the rice.
Pine Nuts (optional): Toasted pine nuts add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor if you’re feeling extra fancy.

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 the long grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear; this helps remove excess starch for fluffier rice.

Sauté Onions and Garlic: Heat vegetable oil or butter over medium heat in a large pot. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.

Add Spices and Rice: Stir in minced garlic along with cinnamon and allspice. Once aromatic, add your rinsed rice to coat it well with those delicious flavors.

Pour in Broth: Carefully add chicken or vegetable broth into the pot; bring everything to a gentle boil while ensuring all grains are submerged.

Simmer Until Tender: Cover the pot with a lid after boiling, reduce heat, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.

Add Pine Nuts (Optional): If using pine nuts, toast them separately until golden brown. Toss them gently into the cooked rice before serving for an added crunch.

Now you have perfectly fluffy Lebanese rice ready to complement any meal! Enjoy it alongside grilled meats or as part of a lavish spread at your next gathering.

You Must Know

Lebanese rice is a delightful dish that can elevate any meal
The perfect blend of spices and cooking techniques creates a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen
It’s not just a side; it’s a culinary experience that brings people together around the table

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by rinsing the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch, which helps achieve fluffy grains. Then sauté onions and spices before adding rice and broth, creating a flavor-packed base.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your Lebanese rice by adding nuts, dried fruits, or fresh herbs for an extra flavor boost. Consider swapping white rice for brown for added nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Lebanese rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in a microwave with a splash of water to restore moisture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For the best flavor, use homemade chicken broth instead of water when cooking the rice
Toasting the rice in olive oil enhances its nutty taste while preventing clumping
Always let it rest after cooking; this allows flavors to meld beautifully

Cooking Lebanese rice always reminds me of family gatherings where we’d compete over who made it best. My uncle once claimed his secret ingredient was love—surely he meant garlic!