Spanakorizo (A Greek Spinach Risotto)

One of our favourite vegetarian (ladera) meals. Most often, it is made 'white' - without the use of tomato paste added to the cooking liquid. I like it both way, though, and alternate.

• Ready In: 45 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 1⁄2 lbs spinach, cleaned, stemmed, torn or 1 1⁄2 lbs  cut into smaller pieces and washed in several changes water
• 1⁄2 cup olive oil
• 1  cup  chopped spring onion (white and green)
• 1  small onion, chopped
• 1  leek, chopped (optional)
• 1 1⁄4 cups rice, short-grain is best (or use Arborio, but at a pinch, you can use converted. I often make it with brown rice for more fibe)
• 1⁄4 cup lemon juice
• 2  tablespoons  minced fresh dill
• 3  cups water
•  salt
•  fresh ground black pepper
• 1  tablespoon tomato paste (optional)

• Serve with

•  feta cheese
•  kalamata olive
•  crusty bread

Directions

1. In a deep pan heat oil and gently fry onion and leek (if used) until soft.
2. Wash (or soak if necessary depending on what kind of rice you use) rice, drain and add to onion.
3. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Add remaining ingredients, except spinach, and bring to the boil. Cook for 10 more minutes (longer, if using brown rice).
5. Add the spinach, stir well and cover. Reduce heat and simmer on low heat for 5-6 minutes.
6. Remove from heat.
7. Leave tightly covered and allow to stand at least 1/2 an hour before serving.
8. Serve with feta cheese, kalamata olives, crusty, peasant-style bread, a glass of wine and you'll think you're in Greece!