Turkish Rice Pilaf with Orzo Recipe

4.79 from 14 votes

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 Time5

Cook Time30

Total Time35

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: Turkish

Servings:

Calories: 469kcal

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

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.