Bazella W Riz Recipe Vegetarian Made Easy and Delicious

Bazella w Riz, a classic Middle Eastern dish, beautifully combines the earthiness of green peas with the comforting aroma of fragrant rice. It is a staple in many Lebanese households, especially during family gatherings and festive occasions.

This vegetarian version of Bazella w Riz is not only hearty and wholesome but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. The tender peas, simmered to perfection in a tomato-based sauce, meld seamlessly with fluffy, spiced rice, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. It celebrates simple ingredients and bold flavors, offering a delicious way to enjoy plant-based meals without compromising on taste.

Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and salads, making it versatile for any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bazella w Riz is a perfect example of comfort food that’s both healthy and flavorful. The dish is packed with protein from green peas and fiber from rice, making it a balanced vegetarian meal.

It’s naturally gluten-free and can easily be adapted for vegan diets by using olive oil instead of butter.

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to adjust the spices and herbs to your liking. It’s also budget-friendly, requiring pantry staples and fresh produce you might already have on hand.

Most importantly, it brings authentic Middle Eastern flavors to your table with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1 1/2 cups long-grain rice (washed and drained)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large tomato, grated or finely chopped
• 2 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Juice of half a lemon

Equipment

• Medium saucepan with lid
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Fine mesh strainer (for rinsing rice)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Instructions

1. Prepare the rice: Rinse the rice under cold water using the fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and ensures fluffy rice.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the tomato and spices: Stir in the grated tomato, cumin, cinnamon, and allspice. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the tomato softens and the spices release their aroma.
4. Add the peas: Mix in the green peas, coating them well with the tomato and spice mixture. Cook for 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Cook the rice: In the medium saucepan, bring vegetable broth (or water) to a boil. Add the rinsed rice and a pinch of salt. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
6. Combine rice and peas: Gently fold the cooked rice into the skillet with the peas and tomato sauce. Stir carefully to combine without breaking the rice grains.
7. Finish with lemon and garnish: Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the mixture, stir, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

For an even richer flavor, try toasting the rice in olive oil for a few minutes before cooking it in broth.

If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced green chili when cooking the onions.

To make this dish vegan, simply use olive oil and vegetable broth, omitting any butter.

You can also add other vegetables such as diced carrots or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition. For a nutty crunch, garnish with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds.

Leftovers reheat well and can be served as a filling for wraps or stuffed into bell peppers for a creative twist.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Bazella w Riz is fantastic on its own but can be elevated with a few complementary sides. Serve it alongside a fresh cucumber and tomato salad dressed with lemon and olive oil for a refreshing contrast.

For added protein, pair this dish with warm pita bread and creamy hummus or a dollop of labneh. It also works beautifully with falafel or roasted eggplant dishes.

If you enjoy exploring Middle Eastern cuisine, check out our Half Runner Beans Recipe for another hearty vegetarian option or try the Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe for a savory side. For dessert, don’t miss out on the comforting Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe.

Conclusion

Bazella w Riz is a timeless dish that brings warmth, flavor, and nutrition to your dining table. Its blend of tender green peas and fragrant spiced rice offers a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and wholesome.

Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its simplicity and authentic taste.

By following this guide, you’ll create a dish that’s not only delicious but also easy to customize based on your preferences. Enjoy the delightful aromas and the burst of flavors that define Middle Eastern cooking, and don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own.

Happy cooking!

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