Description
Homemade Rice Pilaf is a warm and cozy side dish made with toasted long-grain white rice, tender orzo pasta, and aromatic vegetables simmered in flavorful broth. This classic and comforting recipe is perfect alongside chicken, beef, or roasted vegetables, offering a deliciously savory upgrade from plain rice.
Ingredients
Scale
Grains
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1/2 cup orzo pasta
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids & Fats
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter or olive oil
- 2 1/4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
Seasonings
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley or thyme
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Toast the Orzo: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the orzo pasta and cook, stirring frequently, for 2 to 3 minutes until it turns a light golden color, which enhances its nutty flavor.
- Sauté Onions: Stir in the finely chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent, allowing the onions to release their sweetness.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, just until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Toast the Rice: Stir in the long-grain white rice and toast it for 1 to 2 minutes, coating the grains in butter and giving them a slight golden tint to deepen the flavor.
- Combine Ingredients and Simmer: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, then add salt, black pepper, and dried parsley or thyme. Stir everything to combine evenly. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cook the Pilaf: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan. Let the pilaf simmer gently for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the rice and orzo are tender and the liquid is completely absorbed.
- Rest and Fluff: Remove the pan from heat and keep it covered. Let the pilaf sit undisturbed for 5 minutes to allow steam to finish cooking the rice. Then, fluff the mixture gently with a fork to separate the grains.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top if desired and serve warm as a flavorful side dish with your favorite main courses.
Notes
- For a heartier texture and nuttier flavor, substitute the white rice with brown rice. Note that cooking time and liquid quantity should be increased accordingly.
- Add sautéed mushrooms, peas, or toasted almonds to the pilaf for delicious variations and extra texture.
