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+ servings

Basic Rice Pilaf

A recipe for basic rice pilaf that can be adapted to your likings.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: pilaf, rice dishes, rice pilaf
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 273kcal

Equipment

  • 1 medium saucepan

Ingredients

Instructions

Build Your Flavor Base

  • Heat butter or oil over medium heat. Add onions (and aromatics like garlic or celery) and cook until soft and fragrant.

Toast the Rice

  • Add uncooked rice and stir for 2–3 minutes until lightly coated and slightly nutty.

Add the Hot Liquid

  • Pour in warm stock (not cold). Bring to a gentle boil.

Season Early

  • Add salt, pepper, and any herbs or spices.

Simmer & Cover

  • Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook undisturbed until the liquid is absorbed.

Rest (don't skip this step)

  • Turn off the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.

Fluff & Finish

  • Use a fork to separate grains. Add herbs or butter if desired.

Notes

You can also swap broth flavors or use brown rice (adjust cooking time). 

Nutrition

Calories: 273kcal | Carbohydrates: 43g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 19mg | Sodium: 518mg | Potassium: 209mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 181IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 23mg | Iron: 1mg