Making a classic rice pilaf is an excellent way to add aromatics and simple flavor into your grains to upgrade a traditional white rice side dish. The base for this dish starts with sautéed onion with the grains, broth, vegetables and herbs all added together to simmer until the flavor is absorbed.
Where some might add in orzo pasta to complement the long grain rice, we’ve taken the flavor and texture one step further by adding in a rice and grain blend — Royal Blend® Rice. This mix contains aromatic and fluffy Texmati® White Rice with whole grain Brown Rice, Wild & Red Rice for an added dimension of color and texture. The multi-grain mix is crafted based on research and using the best, high quality and all-natural products. If you’re curious to find out about our other varieties, we’ve got a guide to Cooking Royal Blend® Rice Mixes with Recipes.
This rice pilaf is made without meat, so it’s ideal for serving as a base for grilled chicken, beef, pork or more. It can also double as a vibrant holiday side dish, if you prefer it over this stuffing-inspired Cranberry Pecan Rice Pilaf.
If you’re looking to make it entirely vegetarian, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Or use this Meatless Monday vegan version of Lemon, Shiitake and Brown Rice Pilaf made with oil, mushrooms, asparagus, nuts and grated lemon zest on top. Use water or vegetable broth to cook the rice.