Description
Hearty Mediterranean rice pilaf showcases aromatic herbs and tender grains from Greece. Fragrant spices and careful technique create a delightful side dish you can easily master at home.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (like basmati or jasmine)
- 2 tbsps unsalted butter (or olive oil)
- ½ small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp dried thyme (optional)
- 2 tbsps fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Aromatic Foundation: Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, sautéing finely diced onions until translucent and soft, releasing their sweet essence.
- Flavor Acceleration: Introduce minced garlic to the pan, stirring quickly to prevent burning and allow fragrant notes to bloom momentarily while coating rice grains with the buttery mixture.
- Golden Transformation: Stir rice continuously, developing a delicate golden hue and nutty undertones before adding chicken broth, salt, black pepper, and thyme to elevate the flavor profile.
- Moisture Infusion: Bring liquid to a vigorous boil, then immediately reduce heat to lowest setting, covering the saucepan completely to trap steam and ensure uniform cooking.
- Tender Development: Simmer rice gently, allowing grains to absorb liquid and expand, gradually softening during the cooking process.
- Resting and Finishing: Remove pan from heat, letting pilaf rest covered for several minutes to complete moisture absorption, then delicately separate grains using a fork to create a light, fluffy texture.
- Presentation: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately, presenting a fragrant rice pilaf that tantalizes the senses.
Notes
- Prevent Rice Burning: Stir constantly when toasting rice to develop golden color without scorching, ensuring even heat distribution and preventing bitter flavors.
- Control Liquid Absorption: Use precise liquid measurements to avoid mushy or dry rice; chicken broth provides deeper flavor compared to water, enhancing overall taste profile.
- Master Low-Heat Technique: Maintain extremely low simmer after boiling to guarantee uniform rice cooking and prevent bottom layer from becoming crispy or undercooked.
- Boost Dietary Flexibility: Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for vegetarian version, or use cauliflower rice for low-carb alternative without compromising authentic pilaf texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Side Dish
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg