Djuvec (Vegetable Rice)

This Djuvec rice is a simple, healthy, and super customizable veggie and flavor-packed side dish or main. Serve alongside a mid-week meal or at parties, potlucks, and BBQ's. Plus, this vegetable rice recipe is gluten-free, dairy-free, low fat, vegan, and uses just one pot!

📝 Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion (diced)
• 1 red bell pepper (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
• 3-4 tbsp Ajvar ((*see notes))
• 1 tbsp Vegeta ((optional) or use vegetable bouillon powder)
• 1 tsp paprika powder (or more to taste)
• 1/2 tsp onion powder ((optional))
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 cup rice ((*see notes))
• 1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups water (or vegetable broth if not using bouillon powder)
• 1 1/3 cups peas (frozen)
• Fresh herbs (to garnish (e.g. parsley))

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1You can watch the video in the post for visual instructions.Heat olive oil in a large pot or frying pan. Add the onion and pepper and sauté for 3-4 minutes.
2. 2Add garlic, Ajvar, all spices (except the fresh herbs), and rice and fry for 1-2 more minutes.
3. 3Also, add the crushed tomatoes and the vegetable broth, stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. 4Let simmer covered for about 12-15 minutes at low heat, stirring occasionally.
5. 5Then add the frozen peas and simmer for a further 5-6 minutes. If too much liquid evaporates, simply add more vegetable broth or water.
6. 6Taste the rice and if necessary season with salt/pepper/spices. Garnish with fresh parsley and add a little lemon juice if desired. Enjoy!