Sayadieh (Lebanese Fish and Rice Dish)

fish

🥗Healthier: chicken

💰Cheaper: tofu

Tofu provides a plant-based option that is more affordable.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Canola oil is often less expensive and has a neutral flavor.

pine nuts

🥗Healthier: sunflower seeds

💰Cheaper: chopped walnuts

Sunflower seeds are lower in cost and provide a similar crunch.

almonds

🥗Healthier: cashews

💰Cheaper: peanuts

Peanuts are a budget-friendly alternative with a similar texture.

Soak basmati rice in warm water for about 20-25 minutes.

Prepare tomato sauce by mixing tomatoes, salt, and hot sauce.

Melt Crisco in a large pot over high heat.

Add sliced yellow onions to the pot and cook for 10-15 minutes until slightly caramelized but still translucent.

Drain soaked rice and rinse under cold running water in a colander.

Add rinsed rice to the pot with the onions and cook for a couple of minutes before adding water.

Add water, salt, and white vinegar to the pot with the rice and stir in curry powder.

Cook on high heat until most of the water is absorbed, about 10 minutes.

Layer 6-7 paper towels over the pot and cover with a lid, then reduce heat to the lowest setting and cook for another 25-30 minutes.

Wash, peel, and slice almonds, then shallow fry them until golden brown.

Dredge tilapia fillets in a mixture of all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper, then fry in hot oil until deep golden brown.

Fluff the rice once cooked and serve with tomato sauce, fried almonds, and fish.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens