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Spinach Rice

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Spinach Rice is a vibrant, comforting pilaf where fluffy basmati rice is cooked with aromatics and plenty of spinach, seasoned with cumin, coriander, and a hint of turmeric. It’s quick, wholesome, and delicious as a side or light main.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup basmati rice (or any long-grain rice), rinsed
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and well-drained)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds (or 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin)
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder (optional, for color)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh lemon wedges (for serving, optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear; drain well.
  2. Heat olive oil or butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds (or ground cumin) and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
  3. Add the chopped onion and cook until golden, 4–5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add the spinach, turmeric, and coriander. Cook until the spinach wilts and blends with the onions, 1–2 minutes.
  5. Stir in the rinsed rice to coat each grain with the aromatics. Pour in the vegetable broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a boil.
  6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
  7. Remove from heat and let rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and serve with lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

  • For frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze out excess water to avoid soggy rice.
  • Greek style: add chopped dill/parsley and extra lemon juice.
  • Indian-inspired: stir in 1/2–1 teaspoon garam masala or curry powder at the end.
  • Protein boost: fold in chickpeas, lentils, or shredded chicken.
  • Cheesy twist: finish with crumbled feta or grated Parmesan.
  • Brown rice option: use 1 cup brown rice and increase simmer time to 35–40 minutes (add more liquid as needed).

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/spinach-rice/