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Lemon-Infused Rice with Caramelized Cabbage

This dish features fluffy rice tossed with fresh lemon juice and zest, providing a bright and tangy flavor. Tender, caramelized cabbage is stirred in, adding sweetness and slight crispness to the final dish, which has a colorful and inviting appearance.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Wide skillet or frying pan
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting Board

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups water or broth
  • 1 pound cabbage shredded
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lemon lemon zested and juiced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup optional, for balancing flavors

Instructions
 

  • Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain well.
  • Combine the rice and water or broth in a medium saucepan, then bring to a boil over high heat. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the rice is tender and fluffy. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, slice the cabbage thinly and chop the garlic finely.
  • Heat the olive oil in a wide skillet over medium heat. Add the shredded cabbage and cook, stirring occasionally, until it begins to soften and turn golden around the edges, about 8 minutes.
  • Add the minced garlic to the cabbage and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
  • Squeeze in the lemon juice and add the lemon zest, stirring to combine. If desired, stir in honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.
  • Fluff the cooked rice with a fork, then transfer it to the skillet with the cabbage mixture. Stir well to evenly distribute the lemon-infused rice and caramelized cabbage, cooking for another 2 minutes until heated through.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat. Serve the rice and cabbage warm, garnished with additional lemon zest if desired.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving.