Jul 14 2026
Restaurants›Leone's›Rice Pilaf Recipe

Rice Pilaf Recipe

Inspired by Leone's
Time40m
Serves4

Make Rice Pilaf Recipe in just 40m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Grains

Liquids

Aromatics

Fats

Spices

Garnish (optional)

Method

Preparation

  1. 1

    Rinse the Rice

    In a fine mesh strainer, rinse the long-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps to remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming gummy.

  2. 2

    Chop Vegetables

    Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Set them aside for later use.

Cooking

  1. 3

    Sauté Aromatics

    In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion is translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

  2. 4

    Toast the Rice

    Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and stir to coat it in the oil. Toast the rice for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice becomes slightly translucent.

  3. 5

    Add Liquids and Spices

    Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, and add salt, black pepper, and the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil.

  4. 6

    Simmer the Rice

    Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

  5. 7

    Fluff and Garnish

    Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. Remove the bay leaf, then fluff the rice with a fork. If desired, stir in chopped parsley and lemon zest for garnish.

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