Perfect Pilaf Rice
Transform your dinner table with this fragrant and flavorful Perfect Pilaf Rice, a harmonious medley of tender long-grain rice, aromatic spices, and buttery richness. This easy yet elegant recipe begins with a crucial rinse to ensure fluffy, separated grains, followed by toasting the rice to a golden hue for enhanced nuttiness. Infused with cumin, turmeric, and a hint of garlic, and simmered in your choice of savory chicken or vegetable broth, this pilaf boasts a delicate balance of warmth and depth. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s the perfect side dish to elevate any meal, whether paired with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or hearty stews. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness, and watch it disappear from the table. Ideal for weeknights or special occasions, this recipe guarantees restaurant-quality results every time!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain rice (such as basmati or jasmine)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 0.5 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 leaf bay leaf
- 0.5 teaspoons ground cumin
- 0.25 teaspoons ground turmeric
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky during cooking. Drain well and set aside.
In a medium saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes, or until soft and translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30–60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
Add the rinsed and drained rice to the pan, stirring to coat the grains evenly in the butter and aromatics. Toast the rice for 2–3 minutes until it becomes lightly golden and gives off a nutty aroma.
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, and stir in the bay leaf, ground cumin, ground turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and allow the rice to simmer gently for 15 minutes. Do not lift the lid during the cooking process.
After 15 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, still covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This allows the rice to finish steaming and ensures all the liquid is absorbed.
Fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains. Discard the bay leaf.
Transfer the pilaf rice to a serving dish and garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
536 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 26.0 g | 33% | |
| Saturated Fat | 14.5 g | 72% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 62 mg | 21% | |
| Sodium | 2912 mg | 127% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 67.7 g | 25% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.6 g | 9% | |
| Total Sugars | 3.7 g | ||
| Protein | 10.1 g | 20% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 91 mg | 7% | |
| Iron | 2.3 mg | 13% | |
| Potassium | 321 mg | 7% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
