Ingredients
Method
Cook the rice
- Heat the olive oil in a 3-quart / 2.8 L saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring now and then, until soft and translucent.
- Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant. Don't let it brown or it will taste bitter.
- Add the rinsed rice and stir to coat it in the oil. Toast for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring, until the grains look slightly translucent at the edges.
- Pour in the broth and add the lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir once, then bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Cover the pot, lower the heat to low, and simmer for 15 to 18 minutes, without lifting the lid, until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Turn off the heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 5 minutes. This lets the last of the steam finish cooking it evenly.
Finish and serve
- Remove the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork. Taste a spoonful, the grains should be soft but still hold their shape, not mushy.
- Stir in the lemon juice, parsley, dill, and mint until evenly mixed through the rice.
- Taste and add more salt if needed, keeping in mind the feta will add extra saltiness. Sprinkle with crumbled feta if using, and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Rinse the rice well before cooking to avoid a sticky texture.
- Keep the lid on while simmering, do not check it repeatedly.
- Zest the lemons before juicing, it's easier that way.
- Add herbs and lemon juice off the heat, not while boiling.
