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Homemade Rice Pilaf – A Cozy, Flavorful Side Dish


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  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Homemade Rice Pilaf is a flavorful side dish made by cooking rice with aromatic vegetables, butter, and a blend of herbs. This simple yet elegant dish is perfect to pair with meats, poultry, or seafood.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (or basmati rice for added fragrance)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 small carrot, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • Salt, to taste
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1/4 cup slivered almonds or pine nuts (optional, for added texture and flavor)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from being too sticky. Drain well.
  2. In a large saucepan or skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and diced carrot. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and golden.
  4. Add the rinsed rice to the pan and stir to coat the rice with the butter and vegetables. Allow the rice to lightly toast for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth, and add the thyme, rosemary, black pepper, salt (to taste), and the bay leaf. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil.
  6. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid, and let the rice simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Avoid lifting the lid during the cooking process to maintain the steam.
  7. Once the rice is done, remove the pan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow the rice to firm up.
  8. Fluff the rice with a fork and remove the bay leaf. Stir in the chopped parsley and slivered almonds (if using) for added texture and flavor. Serve warm.

Notes

  • For added flavor, you can substitute half of the chicken broth with white wine or add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving.
  • If you prefer a more savory version, add a pinch of saffron or turmeric to the cooking liquid for color and depth of flavor.
  • For a vegetarian or vegan version, simply use vegetable broth and omit the butter, substituting with olive oil.
  • This rice pilaf pairs well with grilled chicken, roast beef, lamb, or a fresh vegetable stir-fry.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American, Middle Eastern

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 210 kcal
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg