Making a batch of green rice every week sounds like a great idea if you enjoy it! It can be a convenient way to have a tasty side dish ready to go throughout the week. Plus, green rice typically keeps well in the refrigerator for several days, so you can enjoy it over multiple meals without much effort. As long as you store it properly and it fits well with your meal planning, making green rice weekly shouldn't be a problem at all. Enjoy your cooking!
Cooking amazing green rice that your family will love involves a few key steps and ingredients. Here's a basic recipe to get you started:
### Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-grain rice (such as jasmine or basmati)
- 1 3/4 cups chicken or vegetable broth (or water)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional, for heat)
- 1 cup packed fresh spinach leaves, washed and stems removed
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves and tender stems
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
- Juice of 1 lime or lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
### Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Rice:**
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps prevent clumping during cooking.
- In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and jalapeño pepper (if using) and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. **Blend the Green Mixture:**
- In a blender or food processor, combine the spinach, cilantro, parsley, mint, and lime or lemon juice. Blend until smooth, adding a little water if necessary to help the blending process.
3. **Cook the Rice:**
- Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan with the onions and garlic. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the rice.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth (or water) and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
4. **Combine and Fluff:**
- Once the rice is cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.
5. **Add the Green Mixture:**
- Pour the blended green mixture over the cooked rice and gently fold it in until evenly distributed. The heat of the rice will help wilt the greens slightly.
6. **Season and Serve:**
- Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Garnish with additional chopped fresh herbs if desired.
### Tips for Success:
- **Fresh Herbs:** Use fresh herbs for the best flavor. If you prefer a stronger herb flavor, you can increase the amount of cilantro, parsley, or mint.
- **Adjusting Heat:** Adjust the amount of jalapeño pepper or omit it entirely depending on your preference for spiciness.
- **Storage:** Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to refresh.
This green rice makes a flavorful and vibrant side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Enjoy cooking for your family!