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Easy Homemade Rice Pilaf Recipe

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4.2 from 7 reviews

This Easy Homemade Rice Pilaf is a flavorful, aromatic dish combining toasted orzo and rice cooked in seasoned vegetable or chicken stock. Infused with garlic, onions, and a blend of warming spices, it makes a perfect side dish to complement any meal. Quick to prepare and full of texture, it offers a savory, comforting flavor in just 35 minutes.

Ingredients

Rice Pilaf Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1/2 large onion, diced (white or yellow)
  • 3 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup orzo
  • 1 cup long grain white rice, rinsed
  • 3 cups stock (vegetable or chicken)
  • 1/4 teaspoon coriander
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a cast iron skillet, deep skillet, or pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and diced onion, sautéing for 60-90 seconds until fragrant and softened.
  2. Prepare Stock: If using chilled stock, bring it to room temperature by leaving it out or warming gently in a pot or microwave to ensure quicker boiling later.
  3. Toast Orzo: Add the orzo to the skillet and stir well to coat with oil. Toast the orzo for about 3 minutes, stirring frequently until lightly browned and fragrant.
  4. Toast Rice: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then add the rinsed rice. Stir to coat all grains in oil and toast for 4-5 minutes until the rice becomes translucent.
  5. Add Spices: Sprinkle in the coriander, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt. Stir well to evenly combine the spices throughout the rice and orzo mixture.
  6. Add Stock and Simmer: Slowly pour the warm or room temperature stock into the skillet. Increase heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to medium/low heat, cover, and simmer gently for 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked through following package instructions.
  7. Rest the Pilaf: Remove the skillet from heat and let the rice pilaf rest, covered, for 3 minutes to allow steam to finish cooking and fluff the grains.
  8. Finish and Serve: Remove the lid, stir in the chopped fresh parsley, fluff the pilaf with a fork, and serve immediately as a delicious side dish.

Notes

  • Use rinsed rice to remove excess starch for fluffier grains.
  • To speed up cooking, warm the stock before adding it to the pan.
  • Do not lift the lid during cooking to maintain steam and ensure proper rice texture.
  • Feel free to substitute fresh herbs like cilantro or dill instead of parsley for a different flavor.
  • This pilaf pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a base for stews and curries.

Find it online: https://cookedbygrace.com/easy-homemade-rice-pilaf-recipe/