Awesome Rice Pilaf

Ingredients and Weight:

• Basmati rice: 2 cups (350 g)
• Vegetable broth: 4 cups (950 ml)
• Bay leaf: 2
• Thyme sprigs: 4
• Celery stalks, diced: 1 cup (150 g)
• Carrots, diced: 1 cup (150 g)
• Onion, chopped: 1 (150 g)
• Garlic cloves, minced: 3
• Butter: 2 tablespoons (30 g)
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons (30 ml)
• Salt and black pepper: to taste

Preparation Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

30 minutes

Difficulty Level:

2 (Simple to Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Rinse the basmati rice several times until the water runs clear.
2. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the celery, carrots, and onion, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
5. Add the rice to the vegetables and stir to coat.
6. Pour in the vegetable broth. Add the bay leaves and thyme sprigs. Season with salt and black pepper.
7. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low.
8. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
9. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 250 calories per serving (1 cup)
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Protein: 5 g
• Fat: 5 g
• Fiber: 1 g

Dish Characteristics:

• Fluffy and flavorful
• Aromatic thanks to the added herbs and spices
• Can be served as a side dish or a main course with additional side dishes

User Comments:

• "This pilaf was a hit with my family! It was easy to make and had a wonderful flavor."
• "I love the combination of vegetables and rice in this dish. It's a great way to get multiple food groups in one meal."
• "I've made this pilaf several times now, and it always turns out perfectly. It's a staple in my recipe box."
• "The aroma from the pilaf while cooking was amazing. It made my whole house smell wonderful."
• "This pilaf is a great way to use up leftover vegetables. I often add whatever I have on hand, and it always turns out great."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• To make a vegetarian version of this pilaf, omit the butter and use vegetable broth.
• If you don't have vegetable broth, you can use water and add a bouillon cube or two.
• You can adjust the seasonings to your taste. If you like a spicier pilaf, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
• If you are using a different type of rice, such as brown rice, you may need to adjust the cooking time.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.