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Homemade Rice Pilaf

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  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Homemade Rice Pilaf is a simple yet flavorful side dish made with fragrant sautéed onions, garlic, herbs, and broth-infused rice. Lightly toasted for extra depth, it’s a perfect pairing for any meal.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup long-grain rice (rinsed)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 2 Tbsp butter (or olive oil)
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme (or parsley)
  • ¼ cup toasted pine nuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Sauté aromatics: In a saucepan, melt butter or heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté until translucent and fragrant.
  2. Toast rice: Add rinsed rice to the pan and stir to coat with butter/oil. Cook for 2–3 minutes until rice is lightly toasted.
  3. Add broth and herbs: Pour in broth and add fresh thyme or parsley. Bring to a boil.
  4. Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  5. Finish and serve: Fluff rice with a fork. Stir in toasted pine nuts if using. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Rinsing the rice helps remove excess starch and prevents clumping.
  • Substitute herbs with dried versions if fresh isn’t available—use ½ tsp dried thyme or parsley.
  • Pine nuts add a nice crunch and nutty flavor but are optional.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 230
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg