Description
A simple and satisfying fluffy rice pilaf made with long grain white rice, perfect as a side dish or a base for other meals.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup long grain white rice (basmati or jasmine work best)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by melting butter (or heating oil) in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent — about 5–6 minutes. If you’re using garlic, stir it in for the last 30 seconds so it doesn’t burn.
- Add the rice straight into the pan with the onions. Stir frequently, letting the grains toast in the butter for about 2–3 minutes. They’ll start to look slightly opaque and take on a faint nutty aroma.
- Now add the broth and season with salt and pepper. Give everything a gentle stir to combine, then increase the heat to bring it to a low boil.
- As soon as it reaches a simmer, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid, and leave it alone. No stirring. No peeking. Simmer for 15–18 minutes until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Once the rice is done, turn off the heat and let it sit — covered — for 5–10 minutes.
- Remove the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork. You’ll see individual grains, soft and separate, not gummy or clumpy. This is what good pilaf is all about.
- At this point, you can stir in any extras — chopped parsley, toasted nuts, or peas. They add color, crunch, and a little something extra. But honestly, even plain, this pilaf is deeply satisfying.
Notes
- This pilaf can be customized with additional ingredients like chopped nuts or vegetables.
- For richer flavor, let the toasted rice sit for a moment before adding the broth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 7mg
Keywords: rice, pilaf, side dish, vegetarian