Garlic Butter Rice Pilaf: The Ultimate Fluffy & Flavorful Side Dish
When it comes to the perfect side dish, Garlic Butter Rice Pilaf is a total game-changer. It’s buttery, fluffy, and packed with garlic-infused goodness—plus, it pairs with just about anything! Whether you’re serving it alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or sautéed shrimp, this dish takes your meal to the next level. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of pantry staples.
But did you know that rice pilaf has been around for centuries? This classic dish has roots in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, where toasting rice in butter or oil before cooking enhances its nutty flavor. It’s a simple technique, but it makes all the difference in achieving that light, non-sticky texture we all love.
So, if you’re looking for a foolproof, no-fuss side dish that’s packed with flavor, this is it! With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious, restaurant-quality rice pilaf that’s guaranteed to impress. Let’s get cooking! ️✨
Recipe Yield: 4 servings
INGREDIENTS
1 cup long-grain white rice (such as jasmine or basmati)
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1/2 small onion, finely diced (about 1/4 cup)
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
3/4 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tsp fresh thyme)
1/4 cup slivered almonds (optional, for crunch)
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Sauté the aromatics: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter with olive oil. Add diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Toast the rice: Add the rice and stir constantly for 3-4 minutes until lightly golden and fragrant. This step enhances the nutty flavor and helps prevent mushy rice.
3. Simmer the pilaf: Pour in the chicken broth, season with salt, pepper, and thyme, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 16-18 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.
4. Rest and fluff: Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork to separate the grains.
5. Garnish and serve: Stir in the slivered almonds (if using) and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!
Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe
- Use the Right Rice: Long-grain varieties like jasmine or basmati yield the fluffiest results. Avoid short-grain rice, which gets too sticky.
- Don’t Skip the Toasting Step: Toasting the rice with butter and oil deepens the flavor and prevents a gummy texture.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the pilaf to rest for 5 minutes off the heat ensures a light, fluffy consistency.
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