Rice is seriously my weak point, and any meal with a heap of it is pure comfort for me. I enjoy cooking rice dishes from all over the world, like Arroz con Pollo, Jambalaya, Hashweh and Jollof Rice. Today’s Mediterranean Rice is a bit like Greek Lemon Rice, but it stands out with its bold spices and the crunchy nuts and sweet raisins on top. I love serving it with my kebab dishes like Shish Tawook, Kofta Kebabs, Souvlaki, Tikka and Keftedes. The flavors pair perfectly, and it really makes the whole meal feel complete.
What is Mediterranean Rice
Mediterranean rice is a delicious yellow basmati rice that’s often served with a variety of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes. The rice gets its vibrant yellow color from spices like turmeric or saffron and is a popular side for grilled meats, kebabs, and fish. You’ll often find it served in Mediterranean or Middle Eastern restaurants as part of a plate, often alongside salad or other rice varieties like rice with vermicelli. This style of rice is made not just in the Middle East but also in countries like Greece, Spain, Iran, and across North Africa. It’s also common in places like Afghanistan and India where similar rice dishes are prepared with their own unique twists. Mediterranean rice is loved for its fragrant spices and light, fluffy texture, making it a great side for all kinds of meals.
Ingredients Needed
Basmati rice – I love using basmati rice because of its long, fluffy grains and light texture. Make sure to rinse it well to remove excess starch, so it cooks up nice and fluffy. Olive oil – I always use extra virgin olive oil for that rich Mediterranean flavor, but you can use any good-quality olive oil you have on hand. Spices – The combination of turmeric, cumin and paprika adds warmth and color to the dish. If you want an even deeper flavor, you could use saffron instead of turmeric. Garlic – Freshly chopped garlic adds a subtle yet important layer of flavor to the dish. Chicken stock or water – I prefer using chicken stock for a richer taste, but water works just as well if you want to keep it vegetarian. Nuts and raisins – Toasted pine nuts, almonds, and raisins give a great contrast with their crunch and sweetness. You can swap in other nuts or dried fruits like pistachios or apricots depending on what you have. Fresh herbs – I like garnishing with chopped parsley in the end, but cilantro works too.
Mediterranean Rice Recipe
First, I start by rinsing the basmati rice a few times until the water runs clear. This helps remove the extra starch and keeps the rice from getting sticky. Then, I soak the rice in some water while I prep the rest of the ingredients. I heat up a bit of extra virgin olive oil in a pot over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, I toss in some diced onion and sauté it until it’s translucent. After that, I add peppercorns, cardamom, cloves and a cinnamon stick. I let those spices sizzle for a couple of minutes so they release their aromas. Next, I add the chopped garlic and sauté that for about a minute. Then, I mix in the turmeric, paprika, cumin, and salt, giving everything a good stir to coat the onions and spices. Once the rice is soaked, I drain it well and add it to the pot. I gently toss and toast the rice for a few minutes, making sure to be careful not to break the grains. Then, I pour in the chicken stock and bring it all to a boil. After a couple of minutes of boiling, I cover the pot, lower the heat to low, and let the rice cook undisturbed for about 20 minutes. Once it’s done, I turn off the heat and fluff the rice with a fork. Finally, I like to top it off with a generous sprinkle of toasted pine nuts, raisins, and almonds, along with some freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. That’s it! It’s ready to serve. Perfect with just about anything!
Serving Suggestions
As I mentioned above, this rice dish goes great with pretty much any kebab. That’s usually my top pick. When I’m not having chicken Shawarma or Gyro wrapped in a pita, I love serving them alongside this Mediterranean Rice. The flavors really come together, and it’s a perfect way to enjoy those seasoned meats without the wrap! Also, if you’re looking for a little extra flavor, you can toss in some lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving. It adds a bright, zesty contrast to the warm spices! If I’m in the mood for something simple, this rice is also great on its own with a fresh salad or some roasted or grilled veggies. Honestly, it’s so versatile, you can’t go wrong with whatever you serve it with! Try my version of this easy rice from Mediterranean region. It’s packed with flavor, simple to prepare, and feels like comfort food every time. It’s one of those recipes that’ll keep coming back into your kitchen!
