Name: Lahanorizo (Greek Rice with Cabbage) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 1 medium carrot, diced; 1 medium leek, sliced (white and light green parts only); 2 large garlic cloves, minced; 1 medium cabbage, sliced (about 500 g / 1 lb); A handful fresh dill, roughly chopped; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 225 g (1/2 lb) round grain rice; 1 litre (4 cups) vegetable stock

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 10 reviews

If you crave a dish that brings warmth, comfort, and a touch of Greek tradition to your table, look no further than the Lahanorizo (Greek Rice with Cabbage) Recipe. This beloved classic marries tender cabbage with fluffy rice, all infused with vibrant herbs, tangy lemon, and the gentle aroma of garlic and tomato paste. It is the kind of meal that feels like a cozy hug, yet bright and fresh enough to enjoy any time of the year. Whether you’re new to Greek cuisine or a seasoned enthusiast, this dish invites you to savor the simple, soulful flavors of home cooking at its finest.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The first image shows a dark brown pot with red handles filled with finely chopped pieces of onion, carrot, and celery, mixed and lightly cooked forming a colorful base layer of orange, white, and green bits, with a dollop of bright red paste placed in the center on top. The second image shows the same dark brown pot with red handles now filled with a thick layer of pale yellow and light green shredded cabbage piled high, sitting over the mixture from the first image. The pot is placed on a sleek white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the ingredients for this Lahanorizo (Greek Rice with Cabbage) Recipe is delightfully straightforward. Each component plays a crucial role, lending natural sweetness, an earthy bite, or an aromatic lift that makes this dish truly sing.

Olive oil: Use good quality olive oil for a rich base that gently sautés the veggies and adds Mediterranean depth.
Large onion, finely chopped: Offers sweetness and a tender texture as it softens in the pot.
Medium carrot, diced: Adds subtle sweetness and a splash of color to keep things lively.
Medium leek, sliced: The white and light green parts impart a delicate oniony flavor but milder and smoother.
Garlic cloves: Minced to release their pungent aroma that complements the other veggies perfectly.
Tomato paste: Brings a subtle tang and deepens the overall flavor with a touch of umami.
Medium cabbage, sliced: The star of the dish—its slightly crunchy texture softens beautifully during cooking.
Round grain rice: Absorbs all the lovely broth and melds the flavors together into one comforting bite.
Vegetable stock: Provides moisture and seasoning to cook the rice while enhancing the savory character.
Fresh dill, roughly chopped: Offers a bright, herby note that pairs incredibly well with lemon.
Lemon juice: Infuses a zesty freshness that cuts through the richness and balances the dish.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning at various stages, elevating every ingredient.

How to Make Lahanorizo (Greek Rice with Cabbage) Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, diced carrot, and sliced leek. Let them cook gently for about 5 to 6 minutes until they soften and release their sweet fragrances. This creates a flavorful foundation that’s essential for the depth in the final dish.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Tomato Paste

Next, toss in the garlic cloves and cook just long enough for their aroma to bloom—about 1 to 2 minutes. Then, stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for an additional minute. This step is crucial because it allows the tomato paste to develop its rich, savory essence, blending flawlessly into the mix.

Step 3: Sauté the Cabbage

Add the sliced cabbage directly into the pot and sprinkle generously with salt. The salt helps to draw moisture out of the cabbage and softens it as you sauté for 8 to 10 minutes. As the cabbage reduces in size and becomes tender, it melds perfectly with the sautéed aromatics for a comforting texture and mild sweetness.

Step 4: Cook the Rice with Stock

Now it’s time to stir in the round grain rice and pour in the vegetable stock. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Keep an eye on the texture, adding a splash more stock if it gets too dry before the rice is fully tender.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Dill and Lemon Juice

Once the rice is cooked to fluffy perfection and the cabbage is tender, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the freshly chopped dill and the juice of one lemon for that unmistakable bright kick that balances the dish beautifully. Adjust salt and pepper to your taste, and your Lahanorizo (Greek Rice with Cabbage) is ready to enjoy.

How to Serve Lahanorizo (Greek Rice with Cabbage) Recipe

A green bowl filled with a thick orange rice dish that has visible small pieces of carrot and cabbage mixed in, topped with small sprigs of fresh green herbs. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with scattered uncooked white rice grains nearby. Behind the bowl, there is a whole bright yellow lemon, half a lemon sliced showing its inner segments, and two pieces of toasted bread. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Serving Lahanorizo calls for a little extra love. Lemon wedges on the side are traditional and encourage everyone to add a fresh squeeze for brightness. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over the top right before serving elevates the richness and adds a luscious finish you won’t want to miss.

Side Dishes

This dish works beautifully as a hearty main or a side. Pair it with grilled fish or roasted chicken for protein-packed meals. A simple Greek salad or tzatziki alongside provides coolness and crunch, balancing the warm softness of the cabbage and rice.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve Lahanorizo in individual bowls garnished with fresh dill sprigs and a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky nuance. Alternatively, use vibrant ceramic dishes to bring the earthy greens and oranges to life visually, making each serving feel like a celebration of Greek comfort food.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Lahanorizo keeps remarkably well. Transfer it into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it just as delicious or even better the next day.

Freezing

If you want to keep this dish longer, freezing is a great option. Cool it completely before packing into freezer-safe containers. It freezes nicely for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of water or stock to loosen the rice as it warms. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and restore its creamy texture. Alternatively, microwave it covered in short intervals, stirring in between until piping hot.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice for Lahanorizo?

While round grain rice works best here for its absorbent qualities and tender texture, you can experiment with medium grain rice. Just keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly, and the texture will be less creamy with long grain varieties.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This Lahanorizo recipe is naturally vegan as it uses vegetable stock and no animal products. Just ensure your stock is vegetable-based, and you’re set!

Can I add meat or other proteins to Lahanorizo?

Traditionally, Lahanorizo is a vegetarian dish, but you could add browned ground beef or lamb to the aromatics for a heartier version. Just brown the meat first and continue with the recipe as usual.

What if I don’t have fresh dill?

If fresh dill isn’t available, dried dill can be used but add it earlier in the cooking process to allow the flavor to infuse. Alternatively, fresh parsley or mint can provide a different yet lovely herbal note.

How can I tell when the rice is perfectly cooked?

The rice should be tender but hold its shape without being mushy. It will have absorbed most of the liquid, and the cabbage should be soft. Taste-testing is the best way to judge readiness.

Final Thoughts

Making and sharing the Lahanorizo (Greek Rice with Cabbage) Recipe is like inviting a little piece of Greece into your kitchen. Its harmonious blend of flavors and textures is irresistibly comforting, making it a perfect meal to enjoy any day of the week. I warmly encourage you to try it yourself—you might just discover a new favorite that feels like a warm hug on a plate.