Easy Rice Pilaf
Easy homemade rice pilaf recipe with toasted rice, aromatic spices, and vegetables. Vegetarian, gluten-free, and perfect as a healthy side dish.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1.5 cups long-grain white rice
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cumin
- 0.25 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 bay leaf
- 0.5 cup diced carrots
- 0.5 cup frozen peas
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
- 2
Add the diced yellow onion to the hot oil and sauté until softened and translucent, approximately 4 minutes.
- 3
Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- 4
Pour the rice into the pan and toast it in the oil, stirring frequently, until the grains turn golden and smell nutty, roughly 3 to 4 minutes.
- 5
Pour the vegetable broth slowly into the toasted rice, then add salt, pepper, cumin, turmeric, and the bay leaf.
- 6
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer undisturbed for 15 minutes.
- 7
Remove the lid and scatter the diced carrots and frozen peas across the top of the rice.
- 8
Cover again and continue simmering until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid, about 5 more minutes.
- 9
Turn off the heat and let the pilaf sit covered for 5 minutes to allow the grains to finish steaming.
- 10
Remove the bay leaf and fluff the rice with a fork, separating the grains.
- 11
Stir in the sliced green onions, fresh parsley, and lemon juice, mixing gently to combine.
- 12
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper as desired, then serve warm with red pepper flakes sprinkled on top if preferred.
Variations & Substitutions
| Ingredient | Substitute | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| white rice | brown rice or wild rice blend | Whole grains provide more fiber and nutrients, supporting better blood sugar control and digestive health |
| vegetable broth | low-sodium bone broth or chicken broth | Adds collagen and amino acids for improved gut lining health while reducing sodium content |
| extra virgin olive oil | ghee or coconut oil | These fats offer better heat stability and may provide easier digestion for sensitive stomachs |
| kosher salt | sea salt or pink Himalayan salt | Sea salt contains trace minerals that support electrolyte balance and reduce inflammation markers |
| frozen peas | fresh broccoli florets or diced bell peppers | Fresh vegetables increase fiber and phytonutrients that promote beneficial gut bacteria |
Recommended Equipment
Tools that make this recipe easier
Nutrition Information
Per serving (serves 4)
| Calories | 318 |
| Total Fat | 7g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 520mg |
| Carbohydrates | 52g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Protein | 7g |
This recipe was extracted from the original video source using AI. Nutritional information is estimated and may vary. Not a substitute for professional dietary advice. As an Amazon Associate, AlmostChefs earns from qualifying purchases. Product links are affiliate links — they cost you nothing extra but help support the site. Read full disclaimer
