Greek Slow Cooker Rice

There’s something incredibly comforting about making a hearty dish like Greek Slow Cooker Rice. I remember the first time I prepared it; the aroma of olive oil sizzling in the pan, the sound of rice gently browning, and the anticipation of introducing those vibrant bell peppers and tangy Feta cheese. It felt like a warm embrace from the kitchen, a little piece of Greece delivered straight to my dinner table. The best part? You can set it and forget it, letting the slow cooker work its magic while you get on with your day. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen.

Essential Ingredients for Greek Slow Cooker Rice

The ingredients for Greek Slow Cooker Rice are not only essential for flavor but also for creating a well-balanced dish. Each component plays a vital role in building layers of taste. From the aromatic olive oil to the tangy lemon juice, they all come together to create something truly special.

• 1 T + 1 tsp. olive oil: Essential for sautéing and adds richness to the dish.
• 2 cups Uncle Ben’s Converted Rice: The star ingredient that absorbs all the delicious flavors.
• 1 onion, chopped small: Provides a sweet and savory base for the dish.
• 1 T minced garlic: Adds depth and aroma that enhance the overall flavor.
• 1 tsp. Greek Seasoning: A blend of spices that captures the essence of Greek cuisine.
• 1 tsp. dried oregano: Imparts an earthy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• Two 14 oz. cans chicken or vegetable stock: The cooking liquid that infuses the rice with flavor.
• 1 red bell pepper: Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant color.
• 1 green bell pepper: Offers a slightly different flavor and texture to the mix.
• 3/4 cup sliced Kalamata olives: Brings a briny flavor that enhances the dish.
• 1 cup crumbled Feta cheese: The creamy element that ties everything together.
• 1/4 cup sliced green onion: Adds freshness and a pop of color.
• 2 T fresh-squeezed lemon juice: Brightens the dish with its acidity.
• Salt and fresh-ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors.

Instructions for Greek Slow Cooker Rice

Making Greek Slow Cooker Rice is an enjoyable experience that results in a delicious meal. You’ll love the simplicity of the steps, each designed to bring out the best in the ingredients.

1. In a large heavy frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the Uncle Ben’s Converted Rice, stirring frequently until it becomes nicely browned. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning; this step is crucial for flavor development.
2. Once the rice is browned, carefully transfer it to the slow cooker. In the same frying pan, add another teaspoon of olive oil and the chopped onion. Cook for about four to five minutes until the onions become translucent and start to brown.
3. Add the minced garlic, Greek seasoning, and dried oregano to the pan. Cook for a couple of minutes more, allowing the spices to bloom and combine with the onions.
4. Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock, scraping the bottom of the pan to lift any flavorful browned bits. This step is important as those bits contribute to the overall flavor.
5. Now, add the onion and stock mixture to the slow cooker with the browned rice. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
6. Set your slow cooker to high and let it cook for one and a half hours. During this time, the rice will absorb all the wonderful flavors.
7. While the rice is cooking, finely chop the red and green bell peppers, slice the green onion, and crumble the Feta cheese so they are ready to go when the time is up.
8. After one and a half hours, check if the rice is tender but not mushy. If it’s still a bit firm, let it cook a little longer.
9. Add the chopped bell peppers to the slow cooker and cook for another fifteen minutes. This will ensure they remain slightly crisp.
10. Finally, add the Kalamata olives and crumbled Feta cheese to the slow cooker, stirring gently. Let it cook for an additional fifteen minutes, allowing the cheese to melt slightly.
11. Before serving, stir in the fresh-squeezed lemon juice and season with salt and fresh-ground black pepper to taste. You can top it with more crumbled Feta and sliced green onions if desired.

Helpful Notes about Greek Slow Cooker Rice

Here are some tips to ensure your Greek Slow Cooker Rice turns out perfectly every time. These pointers can help to enhance your cooking experience and the final dish.

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked rice in portions for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
• Pairing: This dish goes wonderfully with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a light meal.
• Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill right before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
• Cooking Method: If you want to cook this dish faster, you can use a stovetop method instead of a slow cooker.
• Garnish: For presentation, top with more Feta cheese and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

Perfect Pairings for Greek Slow Cooker Rice

When it comes to serving Greek Slow Cooker Rice, there are countless ways to enjoy this delightful dish. Here are some ideas that can make your meal even more special:

• Grilled Chicken: Serve with juicy grilled chicken marinated in lemon and herbs for a well-rounded meal.
• Fresh Salad: Pair it with a crisp Greek salad topped with olives, cucumbers, and tomatoes to add freshness.
• Vegetable Sides: Roasted or sautéed seasonal vegetables are an excellent accompaniment.
• Wraps: Use the rice as a filling for wraps along with fresh greens and sauces.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep for the week.
• Seasonal Pairing: Enjoy it during summer with fresh garden vegetables, or in winter as a warming and hearty meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

Greek Slow Cooker Rice is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that brings a touch of Greek cuisine to your home. Its simplicity and rich taste make it an ideal choice for any occasion. I encourage you to give this recipe a try, as it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!

Greek Slow Cooker Rice

The ultimate comfort food, Greek Slow Cooker Rice combines savory flavors with creamy Feta cheese and fresh vegetables. This easy weeknight dinner is perfect for any occasion. You won’t believe how simple and delicious it is to make!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Course Dinner

Cuisine Greek

Servings 4 servings

Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Mixing Bowl
• Frying Pan
• Skillet
• Chef's Knife
• Slow Cooker

Ingredients

  

• 1 T Olive oil
• 1 tsp Olive oil
• 2 cups Uncle Ben’s Converted Rice
• 1 Onion, chopped small
• 1 T Minced garlic
• 1 tsp Greek Seasoning
• 1 tsp Dried oregano preferably Greek oregano
• 28 oz. Chicken or vegetable stock two 14 oz. cans plus enough water to make 4 cups
• 1 Red bell pepper, seeds removed and finely chopped
• 1 Green bell pepper, seeds removed and finely chopped
• 3/4 cup Sliced Kalamata olives see notes
• 1 cup Crumble Feta cheese see notes
• 1/4 cup Sliced green onion or more
• 2 T Fresh-squeezed lemon juice
• Salt and fresh-ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• Heat the olive oil in a large heavy frying pan, add Uncle Ben’s Converted Rice and sauté until the rice is nicely browned (watch it carefully). Put the browned rice into the slow cooker.
• Add the other teaspoon of olive oil and the onions and cook until they start to brown, about 4 to 5 minutes. Then add the garlic, Greek seasoning, and dried oregano and cook a couple minutes more.
• Add the stock/water mixture and scrape the pan to remove any browned bits; then add the onion/stock mixture to the slow cooker with the rice. Cook on high for 1 1/2 hours.
• While the rice cooks, finely chop the bell peppers, slice green onions, and crumble the Feta.
• After 1 1/2 hours (or when the rice is fairly softened, but not completely done) add the bell peppers and cook 15 minutes more.
• Then add the Feta and sliced olives to the slow cooker and cook another 15 minutes.
• Check to be sure the rice is as cooked as you’d like it, then stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and fresh-ground black pepper to taste.
• Top with additional crumbled Feta and green onions as desired and serve hot.

Notes

• Tip 1: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Tip 2: You can freeze the cooked rice in portions for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat when you're ready to enjoy it again.
• Tip 3: This dish goes wonderfully with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a light meal.
• Tip 4: Consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill right before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
• Tip 5: If you want to cook this dish faster, you can use a stovetop method instead of a slow cooker.
• Tip 6: For presentation, top with more Feta cheese and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

Keyword easy Greek meals, Greek rice recipe, slow cooker rice, vegetarian rice dish