ORZO PILAF GREEK RECIPES

Steps:

• In a medium saucepan melt butter over medium heat; add in onion, garlic and thyme, stir for about 3 minutes.
• Add in the rice and orzo; cook stirring for 3 minutes.
• Add in the broth and lemon juice; bring to a boil over medium heat.
• Add in black pepper, reduce the heat to low and simmer covered for about 20-22 minutes or until the liquid has absorbed.
• Transfer to a serving dish then sprinkle the feta on top (if using).
• Delicious!

Steps:

• To Make Chicken Stock:.
• In a large pot add the chicken, whole lemon, and 8 cups of water. Cover, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and cook for 1 hour, until the chicken is very tender.
• Remove chicken from the pot, and set aside. (Chicken can be frozen to use at another time).
• Skim fat off stock. When the stock cools sufficiently, strain into a bowl.
• To Make Rice: (use 4.5 cups of the chicken stock).
• Measure out 4 1/2 cups of the stock, and pour into a large pot. Add 8 cups of hot (tap) water, and bring to a boil over medium heat.
• When the rice/orzo starts to boil, add the rice/orzo, and stir frequently to keep from sticking.
• When it comes to a boil, reduce heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15 minutes.
• In The Meantime:.
• In a small skillet, heat the 1 1/2 tablespoons of butter over high heat, until it sizzles.
• Lift the cover to the rice, and quickly pour in the hot butter and close the cover quickly, as it will spatter.
• When the sizzling stops (a few seconds), remove the cover, and stir briefly. Remove from heat.
• Allow to sit 5-10 minutes before serving.
• The pilaf is supposed to be smooth and creamy, and slightly mushy.
• To Prepare Other Rice Ingredients to add to rice once it is cooked:.
• In a large frying pan pour olive oil, then add onions, and saute over medium heat, until just softened.
• Add the garlic, mint, and pepper. Saute for about 2 more minutes.
• Add spinach, lemon juice, tomatoes, dill, and tomatoes. Cook for about 4 minutes.
• Add to rice, and mix.
• Just before serving add Feta cheese.
• Note: Add more lemon, if needed at serving time.