Bay leaf rice pilaf

Bay leaf rice pilaf is an aromatic side dish made with white rice, infused with garlic and chicken broth, and seasoned with bay leaf. This simple recipe elevates everyday rice with its subtle flavors and easy preparation.

04 Feb 2026
Cook time 35 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

3/4 cup chicken broth
1 garlic clove
1 tsp bay leaf
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup water
1 cup white rice
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil

Bay leaf rice pilaf is a delightful and aromatic side dish that beautifully complements a variety of main courses. The subtle infusion of bay leaf, combined with garlic and chicken broth, elevates the taste of simple white rice to new heights. Here’s how you can create this delicious dish.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Mince the garlic clove.
- Measure all the ingredients accurately.

2. Heat the Olive Oil:
- In a medium-sized pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

3. Cook the Garlic:
- Add the minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until it becomes fragrant and starts to turn golden brown, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

4. Add the Rice:
- Add the white rice to the pot and stir well to coat the rice evenly with the olive oil and garlic. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously to lightly toast the rice.

5. Add the Liquids and Seasonings:
- Pour in the chicken broth and water.
- Add the bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.

6. Bring to a Boil:
- Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.

7. Simmer the Rice:
- Once the liquid is boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

8. Rest the Rice:
- Turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This helps to fluff the rice.

9. Fluff and Serve:
- Remove the bay leaf.
- Use a fork to fluff the rice gently.
- Serve warm as a delightful side dish to your favorite main course.

Bay leaf rice pilaf is an easy-to-make dish that provides a fragrant and delicious alternative to plain rice. With just a few ingredients, you can transform your meal into an extraordinary culinary experience. Serve this pilaf alongside your favorite mains and enjoy the balanced and flavorful combination.

Bay leaf rice pilaf FAQ:

How long does it take to cook bay leaf rice pilaf?

Bay leaf rice pilaf takes approximately 18-20 minutes to simmer after bringing the liquids to a boil, plus an additional 5 minutes for resting after cooking.

What should I do if my rice is undercooked?

If your rice is undercooked, add a splash more water, cover the pot, and simmer on low heat for an additional 2-5 minutes to allow it to absorb the moisture.

Can I use a different type of broth for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or beef broth for a different flavor, but this could alter the dish's final taste.

What pan size is recommended for cooking this rice pilaf?

A medium-sized pot (approximately 2-3 quarts) is ideal for cooking bay leaf rice pilaf to ensure even cooking and proper absorption of liquids.

How should I store leftover bay leaf rice pilaf?

Store any leftover bay leaf rice pilaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a little water to prevent drying out.

Tips:

- Rinse the white rice under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch. This helps in achieving fluffier rice.

- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.

- If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.

- Allow the rice to rest for a few minutes after cooking without lifting the lid. This helps in evenly distributing the moisture throughout the rice.

- You can add finely chopped onions or vegetables to the rice for added texture and flavor.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 170kcal
Protein 3.97g
Carbohydrates 36g
Fiber 0.65g
Sugar 0.16g
Fat 3.69g

Bay leaf rice pilaf