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–+ servings
Rice Pilaf

Easy Rice Pilaf: Fluffy Comfort with a Savory Twist

Enjoy this easy Rice Pilaf recipe that transforms bland sides into a flavorful delight.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Broth
  • 4 cups chicken broth use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter replace with olive oil for a lighter dish
  • 1 teaspoon kosher sea salt adjust according to the saltiness of your broth
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder fresh garlic can be substituted if adjusted
For the Seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper white pepper can also be used for a different flavor profile
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika you can switch to regular paprika if needed
For Cooking
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil any neutral oil will work in its place
  • ½ cup vermicelli you can use any small pasta
  • 1 cup long grain white rice brown rice can be used but may require more cooking time
For Garnish
  • 1 handful fresh parsley chives are a good substitute if parsley isn’t available

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium saucepan, combine 4 cups of chicken broth, 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon of kosher sea salt, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika. Heat over medium-high until it reaches a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and keep it warm.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add ½ cup of vermicelli and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
  3. Once the vermicelli is toasted, add 1 cup of long grain white rice to the skillet. Stir it in for about 4-5 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t stick.
  4. Pour the warmed broth mixture into the skillet with the rice and vermicelli. Stir well, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cover the skillet. Cook for 15 minutes.
  5. After 15 minutes, fluff the rice with a fork and stir in a handful of chopped fresh parsley. Cover again and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes.
  6. Transfer the rice pilaf to a serving dish and fluff again with a fork to maintain its light texture.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 4gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gCalcium: 1mgIron: 4mg

Notes

For the best results, warm the broth before adding to the skillet and toast the vermicelli carefully to avoid burning.

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