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Perfect Rice Pilaf Recipe

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4.2 from 5 reviews

This Perfect Rice Pilaf recipe combines long grain white rice with toasted vermicelli in a flavorful broth infused with garlic, paprika, and fresh parsley. Easy to prepare in about 30 minutes, this pilaf is a perfect side dish to complement a variety of meals and offers a tender, aromatic texture that elevates any dinner table.

Ingredients

Broth Mixture

  • 2 2/3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp kosher sea salt
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1/8 tsp paprika
  • Pinch of onion powder

Rice and Vermicelli

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/3 cup vermicelli (or orzo)
  • 1 cup long grain white rice

Finishing

  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Broth: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine chicken broth, butter, salt, garlic powder, black pepper, paprika, and onion powder. Bring to a simmer, then reduce to low heat to keep warm while you prepare the rice.
  2. Toast the Vermicelli: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Once hot, add the vermicelli and cook, stirring frequently, until it turns golden brown, about 4-6 minutes. Be careful not to burn it, as this step adds a nutty flavor to the pilaf.
  3. Add and Cook Rice: Add the long grain white rice to the skillet with the toasted vermicelli. Continue cooking and stirring until the rice grains become bright white and slightly translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This toasting step enhances the texture and flavor of the rice.
  4. Combine with Broth and Simmer: Pour the warm broth mixture into the skillet with the rice and vermicelli. Stir to evenly combine. Increase heat slightly until mixture comes to a simmer, then cover the skillet and reduce heat to low. Cook undisturbed for 15 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the broth fully.
  5. Finish Cooking: Remove the cover, stir in the chopped parsley, then cover again and continue cooking for 5 more minutes or until all the broth is absorbed and the rice is tender.
  6. Fluff and Serve: Remove from heat. Use a fork to gently fluff the pilaf to separate the grains. Serve warm as a flavorful and aromatic side dish to your favorite entree.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
  • Vermicelli can be replaced with orzo pasta for a slightly different texture.
  • Be careful to toast the vermicelli without burning it to maintain a pleasant nutty flavor.
  • Covering the skillet during cooking traps steam and ensures even cooking of the rice.
  • Fresh parsley adds bright flavor and color—feel free to garnish with extra parsley.

Find it online: https://recipefeastful.com/perfect-rice-pilaf-recipe/