This is a delicious rice pilaf that is full of fresh flavor. Red bell peppers are commonly used but feel free to use whatever you have on hand. Serve this rice as a vegetarian main course along with a salad and tzatziki or serve it as the perfect side to roasted chicken or fish.
Watch the Video
Bourani: Greek Rice Pilaf with Bell Peppers & Tomatoes
Ingredients
- 2 cups Basmati rice
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, grated
- 1 cup of diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon crushed dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cups of water or broth
- 1-2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley
- garnish: lemon wedges
Instructions
Rinse the rice under cold water 3-4 times until the water runs clear. Let it soak in a bowl for 15 minutes.
Cook onions and olive oil over medium heat until golden.
Add the bell peppers and cook 3-4 minutes.
Add the garlic and warm through.
Add the tomatoes and oregano.
Drain the rice and add it to the pot along with the salt, pepper, and 2 cups of water.
Bring it to a boil and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot with the lid and simmer for 15 minutes.
Add the parsley and fluff the rice.
Serve with lemon wedges.
I found the youtube channel by accident, but I am pleased I did. While the receipes are exactly the same as my parents made, both were from Volos, it pleases me that the Greek cooking traditions continue and are shared with others.