Rice Pilaf with Peppers (Printable)
Fragrant rice cooked with sautéed peppers, onions, and herbs for a vibrant, tasty dish.
# What You'll Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
02 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
03 - 1 green bell pepper, diced
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Rice
05 - 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
→ Broth & Seasonings
06 - 2 cups vegetable broth
07 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
08 - 1 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
10 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
11 - 1 bay leaf
→ Garnish
12 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
13 - Lemon wedges
# How-To Steps:
01 - Pour olive oil into a medium saucepan and set over medium heat until shimmering.
02 - Add chopped onion to the hot oil and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and translucent.
03 - Stir in diced red and green bell peppers, continuing to cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until tender.
04 - Toss in minced garlic and sauté briefly for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
05 - Add rinsed rice to the pan, stirring constantly to coat each grain with oil and distribute vegetables evenly.
06 - Pour in vegetable broth, then add salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Stir thoroughly to combine.
07 - Bring mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover tightly and simmer for 15 to 18 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is fully absorbed.
08 - Remove from heat and keep covered for 5 minutes. Discard bay leaf, then fluff rice with a fork.
09 - Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over top and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The way the peppers sweeten as they cook turns plain rice into something people actually ask for seconds of
- This recipe taught me that sides can be the most exciting part of a meal without any complicated techniques
02 -
- Lifting the lid while the rice simmers lets out steam and can make the final texture gummy
- The resting period is not optional, its when the rice finishes cooking evenly
03 -
- Rinse your rice until the water runs clear for the fluffiest results
- Warm your broth before adding it to the pot for more even cooking