May 12, 2023

Easy Weeknight Rice Pilaf

Name: Easy Weeknight Rice Pilaf
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tbsp butter; ½ c orzo; ¼ c onion (diced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); ½ c jasmine rice; 2 c chicken bone broth; ½ tsp thyme (fresh, ground, or dried); ¼ tsp salt

Jump to Recipe

There’s something comforting about a dish that has stood the test of time, making its way onto our dinner table countless times. For my family, that dish is this Easy Weeknight Rice Pilaf. With its aromatic blend of fluffy rice, and fragrant herbs, this rice pilaf is the perfect accompaniment to any main course. I found this simple and tasty recipe from Soulfully Made’s food blog. Click here to find the original recipe, and more of her amazingly photographed, beautiful food. I adapted the recipe slightly by switching out parsley for thyme, and plain chicken broth for bone broth. Our family favorite is pairing this rice pilaf with our go-to sheet pan salmon, and Magnolia green beans. One of our healthiest and tastiest weeknight meal traditions!

Another aspect that makes rice pilaf a favorite in our household is its simplicity. The recipe requires only a handful of ingredients, most of which are pantry staples, and the preparation is straightforward. In just a few easy steps, a pot of fragrant, fluffy rice pilaf is ready to fill our hungry bellies.

For the curious reader, the history of rice pilaf…

Rice pilaf, also known as pilav or pilau, has a long and rich history that spans centuries and multiple cultures. Originating in the Middle East, this versatile dish made its way to various parts of the world through trade routes, migrations, and cultural exchanges. It has been enjoyed in countries like India, Persia, Turkey, and Greece, each region adding its own unique twist to the recipe.

Traditionally, rice pilaf was cooked in a pot with a combination of rice, aromatic spices, and sometimes meat or vegetables. The method of lightly toasting the rice in butter or oil before adding the liquid gives it a distinct, nutty flavor. This technique also helps each grain of rice maintain its individuality, resulting in a fluffy and flavorful dish.

Get creative!

One of the remarkable aspects of rice pilaf is its ability to adapt and blend with various cuisines. It effortlessly combines flavors from different cultures, making it a versatile side dish that pairs well with dishes ranging from Mediterranean and Middle Eastern to Asian and European.

The ingredients used in rice pilaf can vary based on regional preferences and seasonal availability. While the classic version includes onions, garlic, and vegetables like carrots and peas, creative additions like dried fruits, nuts, herbs, and spices can elevate its taste and presentation. Let me know in the comments what additions are your family favorites!

Let’s get to it!

Step #1

Prep by dicing the onion and mincing the garlic while heating up a medium size skillet over medium heat.

Step #2

Melt the butter in the heated pan. Once melted, stir in orzo and cook until golden (3-5 minutes).

_{(Watch the orzo while browning in the butter, it burns quickly. Learned from experience!})

Step #3

Add onion and cook until translucent (about 3 minutes).

Step #4

Add garlic. Stir and cook for about 1 minute.

Step #5

Add rice, broth, thyme, and salt. Bring to a boil.

Step #6

Once boiling, cover and reduce heat to a simmer. Simmer for 20-25 minutes until the liquid is gone and the orzo and rice are tender.

To close

When dinner sneaks up on me and I need a quick, tasty side dish, this Easy Weeknight Rice Pilaf has remained a steadfast favorite in our family. Its versatility, adaptability, and comforting flavors have made it a go-to side dish that never disappoints. Whether we’re enjoying a casual weeknight dinner or hosting a festive gathering, rice pilaf adds a touch of elegance and satisfaction to the table. Thank you, again, Soulfully Made, for the simple and delicious recipe!