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Lebanese Rice

Lebanese Rice (Under 30 Minutes)

A 30-minute one-pot recipe combining fluffy rice and toasted orzo for a nutty flavor. Includes ingredients, steps, variations, and tips for easy cooking and storage.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Rest Time: 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 155
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Orzo Pasta and Rice
  • 1 stick salted butter 1/2 cup
  • 1 cup orzo pasta uncooked Delallo brand
  • 1.5 cups white rice uncooked Uncle Ben's brand
  • 3.75 cups water this equals 3 + 3/4 cups
  • pinch salt
Cacio e Pepe Variation
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese fold the cheese into the cooked pasta
  • cracked black pepper to taste fold into the cooked pasta

Equipment

  • quart pot with lid

Method
 

  1. Melt the Butter: Place a 3-quart pot over medium heat, add butter, and let it melt, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
  2. Lightly Brown the Orzo: Add the orzo pasta to the melted butter. Stir occasionally until the orzo turns light golden-brown and the butter becomes bubbly and foam-like.
  3. Add the Rice, Water, and Salt: Stir in the long-grain white rice, water, and a pinch of kosher salt. Mix thoroughly, scrape the bottom for flavor, and bring to a boil.
  4. Simmer the Rice: Cover the pot with a lid, reduce heat to low, and simmer undisturbed for 18-20 minutes until the rice and orzo are tender.
  5. Rest and Fluff the Rice: Remove from heat, uncover, and place a dry, clean towel over the pot. Re-cover with the lid, let rest for 5 minutes, fluff with a fork, and serve hot.

Notes

Notes for Cacio-e-Pepe Variation: Stir ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese into the cooked orzo rice. Add a few turns of cracked black pepper to taste. Top with shaved Parmesan cheese before serving for a creamy, flavorful twist. Nutrition Information for 1 Serving: Calories: 155 | Total Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 4.5g | Cholesterol: 20mg | Sodium: 60mg | Total Carbohydrates: 22g | Dietary Fiber: 1g | Sugars: 0g | Protein: 3g This estimation is based on the ingredients provided and standard serving sizes. Let me know if you'd like further adjustments or details!