Spicy Cabbage and Rice Pilaf
This Greek recipe is a great vegan or vegetarian main course, originally from the northern Greek province of Thrace, where the food is a little spicier than it is elsewhere in Greece. You can also serve this Greek rice recipe as a side dish for grilled meat, chicken, and game. It’s great with duck and it’s even great with Thanksgiving turkey.
PREP TIME 5 minutes
COOK TIME 15 minutes
SERVES 4
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup onion coarsely chopped
- 3 ½ cups green cabbage washed and thinly shredded
- 1 cup peeled and chopped plum tomato
- 2 ¾ cups water
- 1 cup long grain rice
- ½ cup dark seedless raisins
- ½ cup blanched almonds finely chopped
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt to taste
Instructions
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1. In a heavy stewing pot, heat the butter and sauté the onion until soft, 2-3 minutes. Add the cabbage and sauté over medium heat, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon, until soft and translucent, 3-5 minutes.
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2. Add tomatoes and water and bring mixture to a gentle boil. Add rice, raisins, almonds, cinnamon, and salt. Lower heat and simmer, uncovered, stirring frequently, until liquid is absorbed and rice cooked.
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3. Place the mixture into a lightly buttered mold and allow to set for 5-10 minutes, then turn out onto a platter. Or toss gently in serving bowl. Serve warm.