"Better than Fried Rice" Mediterranean Garlic Rice with Chickpeas

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil provides healthy fats while canola oil is more budget-friendly.

vegetable broth

🥗Healthier: homemade vegetable stock

💰Cheaper: water

Homemade stock is fresher, while water is a cost-effective base.

bell pepper

🥗Healthier: zucchini

💰Cheaper: carrots

Zucchini adds similar texture, while carrots are often less expensive.

parsley

🥗Healthier: cilantro

💰Cheaper: green onions

Cilantro offers a fresh flavor, while green onions are a budget-friendly herb.

Add 2 cups of vegetable broth into a saucepan and heat over medium heat.

Rinse 1 cup of long grain rice under water for about 1 minute until it runs clear.

Drain a can of chickpeas and rinse under water.

Thinly slice 2 shallots, roughly chop 6 cloves of garlic, and finely chop 1 peeled carrot.

Heat a large fry pan over medium heat and add 3 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil.

Add the chopped vegetables to the pan and sauté for about 4 minutes until lightly sautéed.

Add the rinsed rice and 1 tsp of dried oregano to the pan, seasoning with sea salt and black pepper, and sauté for 1-2 minutes.

Add the rinsed chickpeas and the simmering vegetable broth to the pan, mixing gently to distribute evenly.

Cover the pan and lower the heat to low, simmering for about 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked through.

After 15 minutes, remove the lid and add 1/2 cup of frozen peas, spreading them evenly, then cover again and turn off the heat, letting it sit for a few minutes.

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the rice and fluff with a fork before transferring to a serving dish.

Top with chopped cilantro before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary