Brown Rice Tabbouleh Recipe from Lebanon | Healthy and Flavorful Meal

Brown Rice Tabbouleh

Brown Rice Tabbouleh Recipe from Lebanon | Healthy and Flavorful Meal
Region / culture: Lebanon | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Brown Rice Tabbouleh
Brown Rice Tabbouleh

Brown Rice Tabbouleh is a refreshing and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for dinner. This recipe combines the nutty flavor of brown rice with the freshness of cucumber, tomato, parsley, mint, and green onions, all tossed in a tangy olive oil and lemon dressing.

History

Tabbouleh is a traditional Middle Eastern salad that is typically made with bulgur wheat, parsley, mint, tomatoes, and onions. This version of Tabbouleh substitutes brown rice for bulgur wheat, adding a nutty flavor and extra fiber to the dish.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. In a large bowl, combine rice, cucumber, tomato, parsley, mint, green onions, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  2. Toss the ingredients well and refrigerate to chill.

Variations

  • Add diced avocado for a creamy texture.
  • Substitute quinoa or couscous for the brown rice.
  • Add chickpeas or grilled tofu for extra protein.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the brown rice according to package instructions to ensure it is tender and fluffy.

- For best results, chop the vegetables and herbs finely to ensure a well-balanced bite of flavors in each spoonful.

- Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Brown Rice Tabbouleh as a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or lamb. It also makes a great topping for salads or wraps.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to rinse the brown rice before cooking to remove excess starch.

- Use a sharp knife to finely chop the vegetables and herbs for a uniform texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use white rice or quinoa instead of brown rice.

- Substitute red onion for green onions.

- Use lime juice instead of lemon juice.

Make Ahead Tips

Brown Rice Tabbouleh can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Brown Rice Tabbouleh in a large bowl or on a platter garnished with extra parsley and mint leaves for a fresh and vibrant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Brown Rice Tabbouleh with grilled meats, kebabs, or falafel for a complete Middle Eastern meal. It also pairs well with hummus, tzatziki, or baba ganoush.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Brown Rice Tabbouleh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds or enjoy cold.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Brown Rice Tabbouleh contains approximately 220 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Brown Rice Tabbouleh contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Brown Rice Tabbouleh contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Brown Rice Tabbouleh contains approximately 4 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Brown Rice Tabbouleh is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin K, and manganese.

Alergens

This recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free. Please note that it contains nuts (if using) and may not be suitable for those with nut allergies.

Summary

Brown Rice Tabbouleh is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for those looking to add more whole grains and vegetables to their diet.

Summary

Brown Rice Tabbouleh is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and perfect for a light and refreshing meal. With its combination of whole grains, vegetables, and herbs, it is a great option for those looking to add more plant-based foods to their diet. Enjoy this flavorful salad as a side dish or as a main course for a healthy and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Sarah in her cozy little kitchen. As we chatted and caught up on old times, she suddenly pulled out a big bowl of what looked like a colorful salad.

"What's this?" I asked, intrigued by the vibrant mix of ingredients.

"It's my special recipe for Brown Rice Tabbouleh," Sarah replied with a smile. "I learned it from a Lebanese friend of mine, and it's become a family favorite."

I took a bite of the salad and was instantly hooked. The nutty flavor of the brown rice combined perfectly with the fresh herbs, juicy tomatoes, and tangy lemon dressing. It was a refreshing and satisfying dish that was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.

"Would you like the recipe?" Sarah asked, noticing my enthusiasm.

I eagerly nodded, and she proceeded to write down the ingredients and instructions for making the Brown Rice Tabbouleh. I thanked her profusely and promised to try it out at home.

That evening, I recreated the recipe in my own kitchen, following Sarah's instructions to the letter. As the flavors melded together and the aroma of fresh herbs filled the air, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special.

From that day on, Brown Rice Tabbouleh became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just for myself on quiet evenings at home. Each time I prepared it, I thought of Sarah and the wonderful gift she had given me.

Over the years, I have tweaked the recipe slightly to suit my own tastes. I added a bit more lemon juice for extra tanginess and swapped out the traditional parsley for cilantro for a more vibrant flavor. I also experimented with different types of brown rice, trying out short-grain, long-grain, and even wild rice to see how each one affected the final dish.

But no matter how many variations I tried, the essence of the Brown Rice Tabbouleh remained the same – a healthy, delicious, and satisfying dish that never failed to impress.

As I continued to cook and bake my way through life, collecting recipes and culinary experiences from friends, family, and even strangers, the Brown Rice Tabbouleh always held a special place in my heart. It reminded me of the power of friendship, the joy of discovery, and the simple pleasure of sharing a good meal with loved ones.

Now, as I sit here in my own cozy kitchen, surrounded by the familiar smells and sounds of cooking, I can't help but feel grateful for all the recipes that have come my way over the years. Each one tells a story, carries a memory, and holds a piece of my heart.

And as I take a bite of the Brown Rice Tabbouleh that I just made for dinner tonight, I can't help but smile and think of Sarah, my dear friend who unknowingly introduced me to this wonderful dish all those years ago.

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one, and it will always hold a special place in my heart.

Categories

| Brown Rice Recipes | Cucumber Recipes | Lebanese Recipes | Quick And Easy Side Dishes | Side Dish Rice Recipes | Tomato Recipes |

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