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Homemade Rice Pilaf

A cozy, buttery, and utterly simple rice pilaf that fills your house with a warm, nutty aroma, perfect for any meal.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 cup white rice (long or medium grain) Rinse for fluffier rice (optional).
  • 1/2 cup orzo pasta Toasts quickly; watch closely.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter Butter gives richer flavor.
  • 1 small onion, diced Mild onion keeps it balanced.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic = bigger flavor.
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth Use low-sodium for control.
  • to taste Salt and pepper Taste at the end.
  • optional Fresh herbs (for garnish) Parsley or dill brightens it.

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Heat the oil or butter in a medium skillet over medium heat until it shimmers or melts.
  2. Add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté, stirring, until the onion is translucent and soft — about 4 minutes.
  3. Stir in the orzo. Toast it for 2–3 minutes, stirring often, until the edges turn golden and you hear a light crackle.
  4. Add the white rice and pour in the broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  5. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes, checking at 15 minutes.
  6. Remove from heat, season with salt and pepper, and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and finish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Use hot broth from the kettle to return to a simmer faster. If the orzo burns, wipe the pan and start again at a lower heat. For a variation, stir in a pinch of cumin or turmeric.