Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsStadium GrillRice Pilaf Recipe

Rice Pilaf Recipe

Inspired by Stadium Grill
Time30m
Serves4

Make Rice Pilaf Recipe in just 30m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Base Ingredients

Aromatics

Herbs and Spices

Method

Preparation

  1. 1

    Rinse the Rice

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

  2. 2

    Chop Aromatics

    While the rice is rinsing, finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Set aside.

Cooking

  1. 3

    Sauté Aromatics

    In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cumin seeds, and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

  2. 4

    Add Rice and Spices

    Stir in the rinsed basmati rice, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper into the saucepan. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to coat the rice with the oil and spices.

  3. 5

    Add Liquid

    Pour in the water or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 15 minutes.

  4. 6

    Let it Rest

    After 15 minutes, remove the saucepan from heat and let it rest, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This allows the rice to finish cooking and absorb any remaining liquid.

  5. 7

    Fluff and Garnish

    Remove the bay leaf and use a fork to fluff the rice. If desired, stir in chopped fresh parsley and toasted almonds or pine nuts for added flavor and texture.

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