Rice pilaf is one of those comforting, versatile dishes that can easily become a go-to side for any meal. It’s light, flavorful, and can be adapted to suit various tastes and occasions.
This easy homemade rice pilaf recipe is simple to prepare yet packed with savory flavors, making it a perfect side dish for both casual dinners and special gatherings.
1. Easy Homemade Rice Pilaf Recipe
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 vegetable or chicken stock
- 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
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large saucepan or skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. This step builds the base of flavor for your pilaf.
Step 2: Toast the Orzo
Add the orzo to the pan and stir it into the onions and garlic. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the orzo turns golden brown. This toasting step is key to adding a deep, nutty flavor to the pilaf, so don’t rush it.
Step 3: Add the Rice and Spices
Once the orzo is toasted, add the rinsed long grain rice to the pan and stir to combine. You’ll want the rice to toast slightly too, which helps it absorb the flavors from the aromatics and spices. Sprinkle in the coriander, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt, and mix everything together so the rice is evenly coated with the seasonings.
Step 4: Add Stock and Simmer
Pour in the 3 cups of stock (vegetable or chicken, depending on your preference) and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid too often during the cooking process, as this can release steam and interfere with the rice cooking properly.
Step 5: Rest the Rice
After the rice has absorbed all the liquid and is tender, remove the pan from the heat. Let it sit, covered, for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps the rice settle and become fluffy, so don’t skip it.
Step 6: Fluff and Add Fresh Herbs
After the resting time, remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the pilaf and stir in the chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately, and enjoy the perfectly cooked, aromatic rice pilaf.
2. Tips for Perfect Rice Pilaf
Rinse the Rice: Rinsing your rice removes excess starch, which prevents the rice from becoming too sticky during cooking. This ensures a fluffy and light texture for your pilaf.
Toast the Rice and Orzo: Don’t skip the step of toasting the rice and orzo. It brings out a rich, nutty flavor that will elevate your pilaf and make it more flavorful. The orzo also adds a fun texture that contrasts beautifully with the rice.
Use Stock for Extra Flavor: For the best flavor, always cook your rice pilaf with stock (either vegetable or chicken) rather than water. The stock infuses the rice with extra depth and richness, making the dish far more delicious.
Control the Heat: Once you add the stock, reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Cooking on high heat can burn the rice at the bottom while leaving it undercooked on top. Keep the heat low for even cooking.
Let It Rest: After the cooking is done, resist the urge to immediately fluff the rice. Let it rest for a few minutes to ensure the grains settle and become fluffy.
3. What to Eat With Rice Pilaf
Rice pilaf is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of main dishes. Here are a few ideas to enjoy it with:
Roasted Chicken: The savory flavors of rice pilaf complement the smoky, charred taste of roasted chicken perfectly. Serve with a simple salad for a light, satisfying meal.
Lamb or Beef Stew: The hearty, rich flavors of a slow-cooked stew pair beautifully with the light, aromatic rice pilaf. The rice helps absorb the savory broth, making every bite more flavorful.
Roasted Vegetables: Rice pilaf can be a great side to roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers. The slight crunch and sweetness of roasted vegetables contrast nicely with the softness of the rice.
Fish: For a lighter meal, serve the pilaf with roasted fish, like salmon or tilapia. The rice adds substance to the meal without overpowering the delicate flavors of the fish.
Stuffed Grape Leaves: For a Mediterranean-inspired meal, pair rice pilaf with stuffed grape leaves. The herbal notes in the pilaf complement the lemony, savory filling of the grape leaves.
4. How to Store Leftover Rice Pilaf
If you have leftovers, storing them properly ensures they stay fresh and delicious.
Refrigeration – Transfer the cooled rice pilaf to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating – Warm it up in the microwave with a splash of water or stock to restore moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Freezing – For longer storage, place the pilaf in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Rice pilaf is a fantastic dish that’s easy to make and incredibly versatile. I love how simple ingredients come together to create something so flavorful and satisfying. Give this recipe a try, and soon, it might become a regular part of your meal rotation!
