Lemon and Mint Basmati Rice

Total time: 20 minutes
   The lemon and herbs combine to make a very refreshing, light rice side dish. Only use the mint if it's fresh, dry is too strong.  If you don't have fresh mint use thyme.

 Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (3.3oz, 95gr) Basmati rice
• 1 tsp butter
• 1 cup (8oz, 240ml) chicken stock
• 1 tbs chopped fresh mint   spearmint, not peppermint.... do not use dry, substitute 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tbs fresh chives, snipped    substitute dried
• 1/2 lemon

 Instructions:

• Snip mint and chives with sharp scissors if using fresh.
• Using a lemon zester or grater, make 1 tsp lemon zest; set aside.
• Melt butter in small saucepan over medium heat. 
• Add rice, sauté, stirring, for 1 minute. 
• Add stock and dried herbs.
• Squeeze the juice from 1/2 lemon and add to the rice (mind the pips). 
• Cover and cook for 15 - 20 minutes (or length of time on package).
• When rice is almost finished, stir in fresh herbs and lemon zest. 
• Cover and finish cooking.  
• When done fluff with a fork and serve.