Jul 14 2026
Restaurants›Meze Estiatorio›Rice Pilaf Recipe

Rice Pilaf Recipe

Inspired by Meze Estiatorio
Time35m
Serves4

Make Rice Pilaf Recipe in just 35m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

Optional Garnishes

Method

Preparation

  1. 1

    Prep the Ingredients

    Rinse the long-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps to remove excess starch.

  2. 2

    Chop the Vegetables

    Finely chop the onion and dice the carrot. Mince the garlic cloves.

Cooking

  1. 3

    Sauté the Onions

    In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent.

  2. 4

    Add Garlic and Carrots

    Stir in the minced garlic and diced carrot. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the carrots begin to soften.

  3. 5

    Toast the Rice

    Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan. Stir well to coat the rice with the oil and sauté for about 2 minutes until the rice is lightly toasted.

  4. 6

    Add Broth and Seasonings

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

  5. 7

    Simmer the Pilaf

    Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

  6. 8

    Fluff the Rice

    Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes. Remove the bay leaf and fluff the rice with a fork.

Garnishing

  1. 9

    Add Garnishes

    If desired, stir in chopped fresh parsley and toasted pine nuts before serving for added flavor and crunch.

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