Growing up in a Greek household, the aroma of simmering Rice And Cabbage In Sauce (Lahanorizo) was a constant comfort. It’s the dish my mom would make when we needed a little taste of home, and to this day, it remains one of my all-time favorite comfort foods. There’s just something about the tender cabbage, the fluffy rice, and the savory, slightly sweet sauce that warms the soul.
When I moved out on my own, I knew I had to learn how to make Mom’s famous Rice And Cabbage In Sauce (Lahanorizo). After a few attempts, I finally cracked the code, and now it’s a regular in my recipe rotation. It’s such a simple, yet incredibly satisfying dish that never fails to take me back to my childhood. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, with a prep time of just 15 minutes and a total time of 50 minutes. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a go-to in your household too.
Table of Contents
Why This Rice And Cabbage In Sauce (Lahanorizo) Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Rice And Cabbage In Sauce (Lahanorizo)
The key to this Rice And Cabbage In Sauce (Lahanorizo) recipe is in the blend of flavors and textures. The combination of tender, slightly sweet cabbage, fluffy white rice, and the savory, aromatic sauce is simply unbeatable. But what really sets this dish apart is the use of cinnamon. It might seem like an unexpected ingredient, but it adds a warmth and depth of flavor that takes the dish to the next level.
Another secret to success is the way the rice is cooked. By simmering it directly in the tomato-based sauce, the grains absorb all the incredible flavors, resulting in a dish that’s bursting with taste in every bite. And the best part? It’s all done in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This is the foundation for the dish, providing a rich, savory base for the other ingredients to shine.
- 1 large onion, diced: The onion adds sweetness and depth of flavor, helping to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is a must-have in any Greek dish, and it really elevates the overall aroma and taste of the Rice And Cabbage In Sauce (Lahanorizo).
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, sliced into 1-inch pieces: The cabbage is the star of the show, providing a tender, slightly sweet texture that pairs perfectly with the rice and sauce.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice: This is the perfect canvas for the flavorful sauce, absorbing all the delicious juices.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes: The tomatoes create the base for the sauce, adding a lovely tang and acidity.
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth: The broth helps to create a beautifully creamy, well-rounded sauce that coats every grain of rice.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Oregano is a classic Greek spice that adds an aromatic, earthy flavor to the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: As mentioned, the cinnamon is the secret ingredient that takes this Rice And Cabbage In Sauce (Lahanorizo) to new heights.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: These simple seasonings help to balance and enhance all the other flavors.
- Chopped parsley and lemon wedges for garnish: The fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon add a vibrant, refreshing touch to the final dish.
Step-by-Step Rice And Cabbage In Sauce (Lahanorizo) Instructions
Preparing Your Rice And Cabbage In Sauce (Lahanorizo)
Prep time for this Rice And Cabbage In Sauce (Lahanorizo) recipe is just 15 minutes, and the total cook time is 35 minutes, for a total time of 50 minutes. To get started, you’ll need a large skillet or Dutch oven, a sharp knife, and a cutting board.
1- Begin by heating the olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes fragrant and translucent.
2- Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and continue cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning. You’ll know it’s ready when the aroma becomes irresistible.
3- Now it’s time to add the sliced cabbage to the skillet. Sauté the cabbage for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to soften and develop a slightly golden color on the edges.
4- Once the cabbage has softened, pour in the can of diced tomatoes, the vegetable or chicken broth, dried oregano, and ground cinnamon. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5- Add the uncooked rice to the skillet, stir to combine, and then cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Reduce the heat to low and let the Rice And Cabbage In Sauce (Lahanorizo) simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the flavorful liquid.
6- Finally, remove the lid and let the dish sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Serve the Rice And Cabbage In Sauce (Lahanorizo) hot, garnished with chopped parsley and lemon wedges on the side.
Pro Tips for Success
1- Be sure to slice the cabbage into 1-inch pieces for the perfect texture. Cutting it too thin can result in the cabbage becoming mushy.
2- Use long-grain white rice for the best results. The longer grains will hold their shape and texture better than short-grain or instant rice.
3- Don’t be shy with the cinnamon! The 1/2 teaspoon called for in the recipe is the ideal amount to provide that warm, subtle flavor that really makes this dish special.
4- Adjust the cooking time if needed. Depending on the type of rice and the size of your cabbage pieces, you may need to simmer the dish for a few minutes longer to ensure the rice is perfectly cooked.
5- Garnish with plenty of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving. The bright, herbaceous notes of the parsley and the acidity of the lemon help to balance the richness of the dish.
Serving and Storing Your Rice And Cabbage In Sauce (Lahanorizo)
Perfect Pairings for Rice And Cabbage In Sauce (Lahanorizo)
This Rice And Cabbage In Sauce (Lahanorizo) recipe serves 6 generous portions, making it a wonderful choice for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh Greek salad, some crusty bread for sopping up the delicious sauce, and a crisp white wine or a bold, red Greek wine.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
The great thing about this Rice And Cabbage In Sauce (Lahanorizo) recipe is that it’s perfect for meal prepping and leftovers. Once the dish has cooled completely, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the consistency if needed.
For longer-term storage, the Rice And Cabbage In Sauce (Lahanorizo) also freezes beautifully. Transfer the cooled dish to a freezer-safe container or bag, and it will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Rice And Cabbage In Sauce (Lahanorizo)
Creative Rice And Cabbage In Sauce (Lahanorizo) Variations
While the classic version of Rice And Cabbage In Sauce (Lahanorizo) is absolutely delicious, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this dish:
- Swap the green cabbage for red or savoy cabbage for a different color and texture.
- Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Stir in some cooked, crumbled ground beef or lamb for a heartier, more protein-packed meal.
- Swap the white rice for brown rice or even quinoa for a boost of fiber and nutrients.
- Experiment with different herbs, like fresh dill or basil, to change up the flavor profile.
Making Rice And Cabbage In Sauce (Lahanorizo) Diet-Friendly
This Rice And Cabbage In Sauce (Lahanorizo) recipe is naturally gluten-free, and it can be easily adapted to fit a variety of dietary needs:
- For a vegan or vegetarian version, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- To make it low-carb, replace the white rice with riced cauliflower or zucchini noodles.
- If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium or no-salt-added canned tomatoes and use a reduced-sodium broth.
- For a dairy-free option, skip the parmesan cheese garnish and use a plant-based alternative instead.
No matter how you choose to customize it, this versatile Rice And Cabbage In Sauce (Lahanorizo) recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of rice in this recipe?
A: While the recipe calls for long-grain white rice, you can certainly experiment with other varieties. Just keep in mind that the cooking time and liquid ratio may need to be adjusted depending on the type of rice used.
Q: How long does it take to prepare and cook the Rice And Cabbage In Sauce (Lahanorizo)?
A: This recipe has a prep time of 15 minutes and a cook time of 35 minutes, for a total time of 50 minutes.
Q: Can I make this dish in advance and reheat it later?
A: Absolutely! The Rice And Cabbage In Sauce (Lahanorizo) keeps very well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Rice And Cabbage In Sauce (Lahanorizo) recipe yields 6 generous servings.
Q: What should I do if the rice isn’t fully cooked after the recommended simmering time?
A: If the rice isn’t as tender as you’d like after 20-25 minutes of simmering, simply cover the pot and continue cooking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the rice is perfectly cooked through.
Rice And Cabbage In Sauce (Lahanorizo)
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Discover the authentic flavors of Greece with this comforting Rice And Cabbage In Sauce (Lahanorizo) dish. Made with tender cabbage, fluffy rice, and a rich, savory sauce, this classic Greek recipe is perfect for a wholesome family meal.
Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium head of green cabbage, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup long-grain white rice
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Chopped parsley and lemon wedges for garnish
Instructions
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5 minutes, until translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the sliced cabbage and continue to sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the cabbage starts to soften.
5. Pour in the diced tomatoes, vegetable or chicken broth, oregano, and cinnamon. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
7. Uncover, stir in the uncooked rice, and continue to simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
8. Remove from heat and let the dish rest for 5 minutes.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and lemon wedges.
Notes
This dish can be made in advance and reheated. You can also add some crumbled feta cheese or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 35
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
Conclusion
This Rice And Cabbage In Sauce (Lahanorizo) recipe is a true taste of comfort and nostalgia, just like the version my mom used to make. With its irresistible blend of flavors, tender cabbage, and fluffy rice, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, with just 15 minutes of hands-on time and a total time of 50 minutes.
I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and experience the joy of this classic Greek dish for yourself. Be sure to let me know how it turns out – I’d love to hear your thoughts! And if you have any other questions or variations you’d like to try, don’t hesitate to reach out. Bon appétit!
