Brown Rice Pilaf
Brown Rice Pilaf is a wholesome and flavorful dish that combines the nuttiness of brown rice with the sweetness of carrots and the crunch of toasted almonds. It's perfect as a side or a light main course, and it suits those looking for a nutritious, vegetarian-friendly option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring chicken broth to a boil in a heavy saucepan.
- Stir in brown rice, grated raw carrot, finely chopped celery, chopped green onions, minced garlic, salt, and red pepper.
- Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in toasted slivered almonds.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider toasting the brown rice in the saucepan before adding the broth. You can substitute quinoa or wild rice for a different texture. If you want to add more vegetables, diced bell peppers or peas can work well. Adjust the salt based on your broth's sodium level to avoid over-seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the brown rice pilaf as a hearty side dish with grilled chicken or baked fish. It also pairs beautifully with Chicken Breasts Diane for a complete meal. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added color and flavor. This dish can also be enjoyed warm or at room temperature for potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the brown rice pilaf to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to prevent dryness and microwave in short intervals, stirring until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Brown Rice Pilaf contains roughly 29 calories, with 1g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 930mg per serving (40% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?
Yes, you can use white rice, but the cooking time will be reduced to about 18-20 minutes. Keep an eye on the liquid absorption, as white rice cooks faster and may require less broth.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit any added animal products. The flavors will still be satisfying and delicious.
How can I make this pilaf more filling?
To make the pilaf more filling, consider adding cooked protein such as chickpeas or shredded chicken. You can also bulk it up with more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).