Everyone will love this fluffy and fragrant rice dish. The secret to really great rice is to start the cooking process with a hot pan and boiling water. This is called the PILAF method. Common in Europe and throughout much of the world except North America, this method of cooking yields tender and fluffy rice.
Duration: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 6
INGREDIENTS
- Extra virgin olive oil, such as Colavita
- 2 shallots, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1½ cups basmati rice, rinsed to remove starch
- 2 cups chopped mixed herbs (dill, parsley, mint, basil, tarragon)
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
PREPARATION
1. Bring 3 cups of water to a boil.
2. Heat a medium saucepan, lightly coated with evoo, over medium-high heat. Sauté shallots until golden brown. Add garlic and continue sautéing for another minute or so to soften garlic.
3. Add rice, reduce heat to medium, and stir constantly until rice is opaque.
4. Add boiling water, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water level is even with rice. Turn off the heat, keep covered, and allow steam to finish cooking.
5. Stir in chopped herbs, adjust seasoning, and serve.
Make Ahead Tip: Rice is best made right before serving but can be made a day or two ahead of serving. Sprinkle a couple of tablespoons of water on rice before reheating, fluff with a fork to avoid breaking the grains, and gently steam or heat, covered in low oven or stove-top.
By Jamie Geller
Jamie Geller is the only best-selling cookbook author who wants to get you out of the kitchen – not because she doesn’t love food – but because she has tons to do.
As “The Bride Who Knew Nothing”, Jamie found her niche specializing in fast, fresh, family recipes. Now the “Queen of Kosher” (CBS) and the “Jewish Rachael Ray” (The New York Times), she’s the creative force behind JamieGeller.com
Jamie and her hubby live in Israel with their six super kids who give her plenty of reasons to get out of the kitchen – quickly. Check out her new book, Brisket 101 and her new family meal plan “Fresh Families” at FreshFamilies.us
