What is the difference between regular rice and rice pilaf?

Regular rice is plain, unseasoned rice typically cooked in water or broth. Rice pilaf, on the other hand, is a dish that is cooked in broth with seasonings, vegetables, and sautéed aromatics. Both work well as a great side dish, but rice pilaf is a more flavorful and textured dish.

Why is my rice pilaf mushy?

Rice pilaf can become mushy if it's overcooked or if the rice is simmered with too much liquid. To avoid mushy rice, carefully follow the liquid to rice cooking ratio. Check periodically for doneness, as you go (similar to cooking pasta!).

How do I fix dry rice pilaf?

Unlike a mushy rice pilaf, dry rice pilaf is easily fixed! Simply put the rice pilaf back on the stovetop over low heat, add additional liquid, starting with just a couple of tablespoons, and increase until the rice is moistened and has a fluffy texture.

Easy Vegetable Rice Pilaf (30-Minute Recipe!)

Description

This Vegetable Rice Pilaf is an easy-to-make, healthy side dish that’s packed with nutrition, flavor, and fresh vegetables. Have it ready to serve with any main dish of choice in just 30 minutes!

Ingredients

2 tablespoons vegan butter (or oil)
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup uncooked white rice, rinsed and drained
4 cloves garlic, finely minced
½ cup carrots, shredded
1½ teaspoon chopped sage (or ½ tsp dried)
1½ teaspoon chopped thyme (or ½ tsp dried)
1½ teaspoon chopped rosemary(or ½ tsp dried)
1 ¾ cups hot broth
1 large or 2 small zucchini, cut into quarter moons
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Heat the vegan butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the diced onion and salt. Sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the rice, garlic, carrot, and herbs and mix together. Cook, stirring frequently, until the rice is lightly toasted, about 3 minutes.
Add the hot broth and mix together. Bring the heat up to medium and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes.
Add the zucchini pieces and mix in, cover, and cook on low for 5 more minutes.
Remove from heat and Let sit, covered, for 10 more minutes.
Uncover and fluff the rice with a fork. Mix in the lemon juice, and parsley, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Serve warm with more parsley and enjoy!

Notes

You can also opt for shredded sweet or white potatoes! Both work well in this and will bring in a different flavor 🙂
The nutrition facts do not take into consideration the addition of salt and pepper to taste.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 23 minutes
Category: Entree
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Vegan, Gluten-free