Basmati & Mushroom Pilaf Recipe
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 3 cups
Description:
A deliciously aromatic rice dish featuring the fragrant basmati rice, earthy mushrooms, and buttery goodness. This Basmati & Mushroom Pilaf has been passed down from my mother and, while I haven’t made it myself, I’ve had my fair share—and let me tell you, it’s absolutely irresistible! Though I’m not usually a fan of nuts, the almonds in this pilaf give it a delightful crunch and enhance the flavor in a way that perfectly complements the earthy mushrooms and the rich, buttery rice. It’s simple, quick, and incredibly flavorful. Perfect as a side dish for almost any meal!
Recipe Category: Rice
Keywords: <30 Mins, quick side dish, basmati rice, mushroom pilaf, easy rice recipe, mushroom side dish
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Basmati rice | 1 cup |
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic (minced) | 1 clove |
| Mushrooms (sliced) | 1 cup |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | 1/2 cup |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp |
| Slivered almonds (optional) | 2 tbsp |
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 510 kcal |
| Fat | 23.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6.7 g |
| Cholesterol | 25.1 mg |
| Sodium | 758.6 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 60.7 g |
| Fiber | 5.7 g |
| Sugars | 5.5 g |
| Protein | 16.6 g |
Instructions:
-
Sauté the Rice:
In a heavy 2-quart saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the uncooked basmati rice and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is lightly browned and fragrant. This process gives the rice a nutty flavor that will make your pilaf extra delicious. -
Add the Mushrooms:
Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan with the rice and garlic. Continue sautéing for another 2 minutes, allowing the mushrooms to release their moisture and soften. The mushrooms will absorb the butter, adding depth to the flavor. -
Add the Seasonings:
Stir in the salt and black pepper, making sure the rice and mushrooms are evenly seasoned. The salt helps to enhance the natural flavors of the mushrooms and the basmati rice, while the pepper adds a subtle kick. -
Pour in the Stock:
Pour in 1 1/2 cups of vegetable or chicken stock (or water, if preferred). Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. -
Simmer:
Once the pilaf reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with the lid, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed, and the rice is tender. Do not lift the lid during cooking, as this will disrupt the steaming process and affect the texture of the rice. -
Finish the Pilaf:
After the cooking time has elapsed and the rice is perfectly tender, remove the saucepan from the heat. Let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the steam to continue cooking the rice. Once rested, stir in the slivered almonds (if using) and freshly chopped parsley. The almonds will add a delightful crunch, while the parsley brightens the dish with a burst of color and freshness. -
Serve:
Fluff the pilaf with a fork and serve warm. This pilaf makes an excellent side dish for a variety of main courses, from roasted meats to vegetarian dishes. The combination of buttery rice, savory mushrooms, and crunchy almonds creates a balanced, flavorful side that will elevate any meal.
Pro Tips:
- Mushroom Varieties: Feel free to use different types of mushrooms, such as cremini, shiitake, or portobello, for varied textures and flavors. You can even mix a few types to make the pilaf even more flavorful.
- Make it Vegan: To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute the butter with olive oil or coconut oil. The dish will still be rich and flavorful without the dairy.
- Nutritional Boost: Adding toasted pine nuts or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast can further enhance the flavor profile, while also adding some extra nutrients.
Final Thoughts:
This Basmati & Mushroom Pilaf is a tried-and-true recipe that I’ve grown up loving, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in your home as well. The buttery, savory notes from the rice and mushrooms, paired with the crunch of almonds and the fresh brightness from parsley, make for a dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple to prepare. With just 30 minutes of your time, you can create a truly flavorful side dish that will complement any meal.
So, the next time you’re looking for a quick and tasty side to serve, give this Basmati & Mushroom Pilaf a try—your taste buds will thank you!
