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Savory Garlic Mushroom Rice Pilaf

savory garlic mushroom rice pilaf - featured image

A quick and easy homemade side dish featuring tender mushrooms and fragrant garlic-infused rice pilaf with a buttery, nutty flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (about 200 grams), jasmine or basmati preferred
  • 8 ounces fresh mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
  • 3 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth (480 ml)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Drain well.
  2. Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent and soft, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Stir frequently and cook until mushrooms are tender and golden, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess liquid if necessary.
  4. In a medium saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice and stir constantly for 2-3 minutes until grains look slightly translucent with a faint golden hue.
  5. Pour broth into the saucepan with the toasted rice. Add salt and black pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
  6. Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Gently fold the sautéed mushrooms and onions into the rice. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the pilaf, fluff gently with a fork, and serve warm.

Notes

If mushrooms release too much liquid, drain some off to avoid watery rice. Do not rush the toasting step for better flavor. Avoid lifting the lid while rice simmers to ensure even cooking. For vegan version, substitute butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil and use vegetable broth. Brown rice or quinoa can be used but require longer cooking times and more liquid.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic mushroom rice pilaf, easy rice side dish, savory rice pilaf, mushroom side dish, garlic rice, quick dinner side, comforting rice recipe