Best Serbian Rice recipe • How to make • Big and Hungry • Hungry Lane •

rice

🥗Healthier: quinoa

💰Cheaper: bulgur

Quinoa is higher in protein while bulgur is often less expensive.

vegetable broth

🥗Healthier: homemade broth

💰Cheaper: water

Homemade broth is fresher and can be more flavorful.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil is healthier, while margarine can be a cost-effective substitute.

bell pepper

🥗Healthier: zucchini

💰Cheaper: cabbage

Zucchini can add similar texture with fewer calories, while cabbage is often less expensive.

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic, diced carrot, and bell pepper; cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.

Add rice and stir to coat with oil, cooking for 2 minutes until slightly toasted.

Pour in vegetable broth and add tomato paste, bay leaf, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes.

Fluff rice with a fork, then stir in peas, paprika, and butter until combined.

Garnish with chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: