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4.8 from 42 votes

Turkish Rice Pilaf with Orzo Recipe

Turkish rice pilaf with orzo is a simple side dish you can serve with almost anything. It calls for only 4 ingredients and is ready in 30 minutes. 

Prep Time
5 mins
Cook Time
5 mins
Total Time
35 mins
Servings: 4
Calories: 469 kcal
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Turkish

Ingredients

  • 2 cups jasmine rice
  • 1/2 cup orzo
  • 2 tbsp olive oil extra virgin
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 4 cups water

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. Soak the rice in water for one hour before you start cooking to get rid of the excess starch.
  2. When you're ready to cook, rinse the rice a few times, drain and set aside.
  3. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the orzo and cook over medium heat for a few minutes until golden brown and toasted.
  4. Add the rice and sauté for a few minutes, there is not need for the rice to change color.
  5. Add in the salt and water. Increase the heat to medium high and bring it to a boil.
  6. Lower the heat to medium low, cover and cook for 15 minutes.
  7. Uncover, wrap the lid in a kitchen towel and place it back on the pot. Cook for another 10 minutes.
  8. Turn the heat off and let it sit for 15 minutes.
  9. Fluff rice pilaf with orzo using a fork and serve with your favorite main dish.

Notes

  • Use chicken or vegetable stock instead of water if you like your rice pilaf to be richer. 
  • You can add diced carrots, peas or corn to the rice with the water and cook. 
  • Store the leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. 
  • Add allspice, nutmeg, paprika and black pepper for extra flavor. 
  • Squeezing fresh lemon on the rice pilaf before serving gives it such bright flavor. 

Nutrition Information

Calories 469kcal (23%) Carbohydrates 88g (29%) Protein 9g (18%) Fat 8g (12%) Saturated Fat 1g (5%) Sodium 599mg (25%) Potassium 148mg (4%) Fiber 2g (8%) Sugar 1g (2%) Calcium 37mg (4%) Iron 1mg (6%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 4Serving

Amount Per Serving

Calories 469

% Daily Value*

Calories 469kcal 23%
Carbohydrates 88g 29%
Protein 9g 18%
Fat 8g 12%
Saturated Fat 1g 5%
Sodium 599mg 25%
Potassium 148mg 3%
Fiber 2g 8%
Sugar 1g 2%
Calcium 37mg 4%
Iron 1mg 6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.