Bake your way to perfection: a foolproof guide to near east rice pilaf in oven

Indulge in the aromatic flavors and fluffy texture of Near East® Rice Pilaf, now effortlessly prepared in your oven. Follow our comprehensive guide to create this classic side dish with ease.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Near East® Long Grain & Wild Rice Pilaf Mix
• 1 3/4 cups water or chicken broth
• 1/4 cup butter or margarine
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Prepare Ingredients: Measure out all the ingredients and have them ready.

3. Combine Ingredients: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine the rice pilaf mix, water or chicken broth, butter, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

4. Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.

5. Fluff and Serve: Once cooked, uncover the dish and fluff the rice with a fork. Serve immediately.

Enhancements and Variations:

• Add Vegetables: For a more colorful and nutritious dish, add chopped vegetables such as carrots, celery, onions, or peas before baking.
• Use Different Broth: Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or beef broth for a richer flavor.
• Add Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, or saffron, to enhance the flavor profile.
• Top with Nuts or Seeds: Sprinkle chopped nuts or seeds, such as almonds, pine nuts, or sunflower seeds, over the cooked rice for a crunchy texture.

Troubleshooting:

• Rice is too dry: Add more water or broth, 1/4 cup at a time, and bake for a few more minutes.
• Rice is too mushy: Reduce the baking time or use less liquid.
• Rice is not cooking evenly: Stir the rice occasionally during baking to ensure even cooking.

Health Benefits:

• Whole Grains: Near East® Rice Pilaf Mix contains whole grains, which are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
• Low Fat: This recipe is low in fat, making it a healthier side dish option.
• Versatile: Rice pilaf can be served with a variety of main courses, including grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or stews.

Tips and Tricks:

• For a crispy crust, uncover the dish during the last 5-10 minutes of baking.
• Use a non-stick baking dish to prevent the rice from sticking.
• Leftover rice pilaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Final Thoughts: Your Perfect Oven-Baked Rice Pilaf

With our detailed instructions and helpful tips, you can now confidently prepare a delicious and satisfying Near East® Rice Pilaf in your oven. Experiment with different enhancements and variations to create a side dish that complements your favorite meals. Enjoy the aroma and flavors of this classic dish, made effortlessly in your own kitchen.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: Can I use instant rice for this recipe?
A: No, this recipe requires long-grain rice. Instant rice cooks much faster and will not have the same texture.

Q: How can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and butter with olive oil.

Q: Can I add meat to this recipe?
A: Yes, you can add cooked ground beef, chicken, or shrimp to the dish before baking.

Q: How do I store leftover rice pilaf?
A: Store leftover rice pilaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze rice pilaf?
A: Yes, you can freeze rice pilaf for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.