Greek Rice with Cabbage (Lahanorizo)

If you love rustic, comforting meals with simple ingredients and bold flavor, this Greek Rice with Cabbage (Lahanorizo) is the perfect dish to try. A traditional Greek village recipe, Lahanorizo combines tender cabbage, fluffy rice, rich olive oil, and fresh herbs in a tomato-infused base. It’s budget-friendly, hearty, and naturally vegan—great as a main dish or a flavorful side.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simple & Wholesome – Just a few pantry staples turn into something amazing.
One-Pot Wonder – Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
Naturally Vegan – No meat, no dairy—just vegetables, rice, and olive oil.
Comforting & Satisfying – A warm and nourishing meal for any season.
Great for Meal Prep – Tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients:

• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes or 2 large fresh tomatoes, chopped
• 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for deeper flavor)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tbsp fresh dill or parsley (plus more for garnish)
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 carrot, grated or finely chopped
• ½ cup green peas
• Pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick

Tools You’ll Need
Large pot or deep skillet
Wooden spoon
Knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Lid for your pot

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics and Cabbage

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the sliced cabbage (and carrot if using) and sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it softens and reduces in volume.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Seasoning

1. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste (if using), oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook for 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Add Rice and Broth

1. Rinse the rice under cold water, then add it to the pot.
2. Pour in the vegetable broth or water and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 18–20 minutes.
4. Stir occasionally and check for doneness—rice should be tender and liquid mostly absorbed.

Step 4: Finish with Herbs and Lemon

1. Once rice is cooked, stir in fresh dill or parsley.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice.
3. Let sit covered for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to develop.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side.
2. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and garnish with fresh herbs for added richness.

Tips for the Best Lahanorizo
Use Fresh Cabbage – Thin slices cook down beautifully into the rice.
Don’t Skip the Lemon – Brightens up the dish and balances the richness.
Keep It Moist – Add a splash more broth if it’s drying out before rice is done.
Let It Rest – Resting after cooking improves texture and flavor.
Double the Batch – It stores and reheats wonderfully for lunch or dinner.

Serving Suggestions
As a Main Dish – Pair with crusty bread or a Greek salad.
With Feta Cheese – Crumble a bit on top for creaminess (optional if vegan).
As a Side – Serve alongside grilled fish, roasted veggies, or lentil patties.
With Yogurt – A dollop of dairy-free yogurt adds contrast and creaminess.
As a Wrap – Spoon into warm pita bread with olives and greens.

How to Store & Reheat

Store:
Cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freeze:
Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheat:
Stovetop: Warm in a pan over low heat with a splash of water or broth.
Microwave: Heat covered in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use brown rice?
   Yes, but increase liquid and cooking time. Add broth gradually and simmer until tender.
2. Is it meant to be saucy or dry?
   It should be moist and slightly creamy, not dry or overly wet.
3. Can I make this oil-free?
   You can sauté the vegetables in water or broth, but olive oil adds essential flavor.
4. What’s the difference between Lahanorizo and risotto?
   Lahanorizo uses long-grain rice and doesn’t require constant stirring like risotto. It’s more rustic and simple.

Final Thoughts
Greek Rice with Cabbage (Lahanorizo) is the perfect example of how humble ingredients can shine in a traditional recipe. With just cabbage, rice, olive oil, and herbs, you get a hearty, healthy, and flavorful dish that fits every table—from weeknight dinners to Mediterranean-inspired spreads.

Try it once, and you’ll return to this cozy, satisfying favorite again and again.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Cuisine: Greek / Mediterranean

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, 1 of 4):
Calories: 290 | Protein: 5g | Carbs: 42g | Fat: 11g | Fiber: 5g | Sodium: 410mg

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