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Easy Homemade Fluffy Rice Pilaf

A white bowl filled with fluffy rice pilaf featuring toasted vermicelli and topped with fresh chopped parsley.
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Follow this simple technique to make perfectly fluffy, flavorful rice pilaf using orzo and broth, ideal for any weeknight meal.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1/2 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice (Basmati recommended)
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil and butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Add the orzo pasta and cook, stirring frequently, until it turns light golden brown, about 3 to 5 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
  3. Add the chopped onion to the pan and cook until softened, about 4 minutes.
  4. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Add the rice to the pan. Stir constantly for 2 minutes to toast the rice grains lightly. This step helps keep the rice fluffy.
  6. Pour in the broth, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  7. Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to the lowest setting, cover the saucepan tightly with a lid, and simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
  8. Remove the pan from the heat and let it stand, covered, for an additional 10 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this resting period.
  9. Fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use homemade broth instead of store-bought.
  • To add texture, toast 1/4 cup of slivered almonds with the orzo, or stir in 1/4 cup of dried cranberries after fluffing.
  • Substitute half the broth with lemon juice for a brighter, Greek-style flavor.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://delishdreams.com/easy-rice-pilaf-recipe-fluffy/