Lemon-Infused Rice with Caramelized Cabbage Recipe

Introduction

This lemon-infused rice with caramelized cabbage is a bright, flavorful dish perfect as a light main or a side. The tangy lemon and sweet, golden cabbage create a lovely balance that’s both comforting and refreshing.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups water or broth
• 1 pound cabbage (shredded)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for balancing flavors)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain well.
2. Step 2: Combine the rice and water or broth in a medium saucepan, then bring to a boil over high heat. Once bubbling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the rice is tender and fluffy. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
3. Step 3: Meanwhile, slice the cabbage thinly and chop the garlic finely.
4. Step 4: Heat the olive oil in a wide skillet over medium heat. Add the shredded cabbage and cook, stirring occasionally, until it softens and turns golden around the edges, about 8 minutes.
5. Step 5: Add the minced garlic to the cabbage and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
6. Step 6: Squeeze in the lemon juice and add the lemon zest, stirring to combine. If desired, stir in honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.
7. Step 7: Fluff the cooked rice with a fork, then transfer it to the skillet with the cabbage mixture. Stir well to evenly distribute the lemon-infused rice and caramelized cabbage. Cook for another 2 minutes until heated through.
8. Step 8: Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat. Serve warm, garnished with additional lemon zest if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Use vegetable or chicken broth instead of water for deeper flavor in the rice.
• Try adding toasted nuts or seeds for extra texture and richness.
• Swap out cabbage for kale or Brussels sprouts if preferred, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
• Add fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an herbal brightness.
• For a vegan touch, use maple syrup instead of honey.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to keep the rice moist.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but note that brown rice needs a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust accordingly and ensure it is fully cooked before combining with the cabbage.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when cooking the cabbage for a subtle spicy kick.

Lemon-Infused Rice with Caramelized Cabbage Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 92 reviews

• Author: Lila
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A bright and flavorful side dish featuring long-grain white rice infused with fresh lemon juice and zest, perfectly paired with sweet and tender caramelized cabbage sautéed with garlic. This easy 30-minute recipe offers a refreshing twist on classic rice and vegetables, making a delicious accompaniment to any meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Rice

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups water or broth

Caramelized Cabbage Mixture

• 1 pound cabbage, shredded
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for balancing flavors)

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Instructions

1. Rinse the rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, then drain thoroughly.
2. Cook the rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with water or broth and bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the rice is tender and fluffy. Remove from heat and keep covered for an additional 5 minutes to steam.
3. Prepare cabbage and garlic: While the rice cooks, thinly slice the cabbage and finely mince the garlic cloves to prepare for sautéing.
4. Caramelize the cabbage: Heat olive oil in a wide skillet over medium heat. Add the shredded cabbage and cook, stirring occasionally, until it softens and develops golden brown edges, approximately 8 minutes.
5. Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic to the cabbage and cook for 1 to 2 minutes more until fragrant, being careful not to let the garlic burn.
6. Add lemon flavors and sweetness: Pour in the lemon juice and sprinkle the lemon zest into the skillet, stirring to combine. Optionally, add honey or maple syrup to balance the acidity with a touch of sweetness.
7. Combine rice and cabbage: Fluff the cooked rice with a fork, then transfer it into the skillet with the cabbage mixture. Stir well to evenly incorporate, and cook for another 2 minutes until heated through.
8. Season and serve: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove from heat and serve warm, garnished with extra lemon zest if desired for a bright finish.

Notes

• Using broth instead of water when cooking rice enhances flavor.
• The optional honey or maple syrup balances the tartness of the lemon and caramelized cabbage.
• Careful not to burn the garlic to avoid bitter flavors.
• This dish pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a vegetarian main with added protein.
• Adjust seasoning at the end to suit your taste preferences.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: lemon rice, caramelized cabbage, sautéed cabbage, lemon infused rice, easy side dish, vegetarian rice recipe, quick vegetable side, healthy rice