Description
This flavorful rice pilaf is made with long-grain white rice, sautéed onions and celery, and simmered in rich chicken or vegetable stock. Finished with fresh parsley, it’s a versatile and aromatic side dish perfect for any meal, offering a delightful combination of textures and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Rice and Liquid
2 cups white rice, preferably long grain
Up to 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock or broth, or a mix of water and stock
Vegetables
1/2 cup chopped green onions or yellow onion
1/2 cup chopped celery
Fats and Seasonings
2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil (or chicken fat)
2 teaspoons kosher salt or seasoned salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/8 teaspoon cayenne
Fresh Herbs
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Heat the stock: Pour the measured amount of chicken or vegetable stock into a saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Keep it warm while you prepare the rice.
- Brown the rice: While the stock is heating, place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil to coat the bottom. Once hot, add the uncooked rice and cook, stirring occasionally, until the rice turns golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
- Cook the vegetables: Add the chopped onions and celery to the skillet with the rice. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the onions begin to soften and become translucent.
- Simmer the rice: Transfer the sautéed rice and vegetables to the saucepan with hot stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Finish and serve: Remove from heat, fluff the rice with a fork, and stir in chopped parsley. Season with additional salt, pepper, and cayenne if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- For extra flavor, use homemade broth.
- Adjust the liquid amount based on your rice’s water-to-rice ratio.
- You can substitute the parsley with other fresh herbs like cilantro or thyme.
- This dish pairs well with grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 200g)
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg