rice pilaf simple recipe

rice pilaf simple recipe

The Best rice pilaf simple recipe

I’ve been making rice pilaf for years, and it’s always a staple in our household. It’s a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs well with any meal. I love how easy it is to make, and my family loves how delicious it is.

The best part is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it at family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or even as a main course when you’re short on time. The key to making a great rice pilaf is to use the right type of rice – I prefer long-grain white rice, as it holds its shape better than other types. To cook the rice, you’ll need to heat some oil in a pan over medium heat, then add the rice and stir-fry it until it’s lightly browned.

Next, add some broth or water to the pan, cover it with a lid, and let it simmer until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. This technique is called ‘pilafing’ the rice, and it’s what gives this dish its characteristic flavor and texture. I like to add some chopped vegetables like onions and carrots to the pan with the rice for added flavor and nutrition.

My kids love helping me in the kitchen by stirring the pot and adding the vegetables – it’s a fun way to get them involved in cooking! When we’re not using our favorite recipe from scratch, I also like to keep pre-cooked rice on hand for quick meals. This way, we can whip up a delicious meal in no time without having to spend hours in the kitchen.

One of my favorite things about rice pilaf is how healthy it is – with just a few ingredients and no added fats or sugars, you can feel good about serving it to your family. Plus, it’s an excellent way to get your daily dose of fiber from all that delicious whole grain rice! Overall, I highly recommend giving this recipe a try if you haven’t already – your taste buds will thank you!

Simple Rice Pilaf

Simple Rice Pilaf

4.6 from 768 votes

A simple and flavorful rice pilaf dish that is easy to prepare and serves as a great side for any meal. This recipe uses basic ingredients and simple steps to create a delicious pilaf with a perfect balance of flavors.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Rice Pilaf

2 cups long grain white rice
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 bay leaf
1 cup frozen peas

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
4Add rice to the saucepan and stir to coat the grains with oil.
5Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the rice is lightly toasted and has a slightly golden color.
6Pour in the broth, add salt, black pepper, and bay leaf.
7Stir well to combine.
8Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
9Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer gently for 20 minutes.
10Avoid lifting the lid during this time to ensure even cooking.
11After 20 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 10 minutes.
12This allows the rice to steam and absorb any remaining liquid.
13Fluff the rice with a fork, removing the bay leaf.
14Stir in the frozen peas and let them thaw and heat through for 2-3 minutes.
15Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

🔧Equipment

Medium saucepan with lid
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8g💛Saturated Fat: 1g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 58g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 9g

📝Notes

Tips: For a more flavorful pilaf, you can use vegetable or chicken broth instead of water.

Watch Video Of How Simple Rice Pilaf Works

Rice pilaf is one of those recipes that’s always a good idea – whether you’re planning a special occasion or just need a quick weeknight dinner solution. One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize – just add your favorite vegetables or leftover cooked meat for added flavor and nutrition.

When storing leftovers, be sure to refrigerate or freeze them promptly to prevent spoilage. Reheating leftovers is just as easy – simply reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave until they’re hot and fluffy again.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Rice Pilaf

Q: What type of rice should I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of white or brown rice for this recipe.

Q: Can I make this recipe with leftover cooked chicken or beef?

Yes, you can definitely add leftover cooked meat to this recipe for added protein.

Q: How do I store leftover cooked rice pilaf?

You can store leftover cooked rice pilaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker by adding all the ingredients and cooking on low for 2-3 hours.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

This recipe is suitable for vegans if you use vegan broth or stock instead of chicken broth.

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