Elevate your side dish game with this mushroom and bell pepper rice pilaf. This flavorful and aromatic rice dish combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the sweetness of red bell peppers, creating a delicious and versatile accompaniment to any meal. Whether served alongside roasted meats or enjoyed on its own, this rice pilaf is sure to be a hit at your dining table.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
- 8 ounces of small crimini or button mushrooms, thinly sliced (about 3 cups)
- 1 small red bell pepper, finely diced (about ¾ cup)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt, adjust to taste (depending on how salty your broth is)
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 small yellow onion, minced (yielding about ½ cup)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups jasmine or white rice
- 3 cups chicken broth
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Thinly slice the mushrooms, dice the red bell pepper and yellow onion, and mince the garlic.
- Cook the Mushrooms and Bell Pepper: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and diced red bell pepper. Sauté until the mushrooms release their juices and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes. Season with a dash of salt and a sprinkle of pepper. Transfer the cooked vegetables to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and aromatic, approximately 3 minutes.
- Toast the Rice: Add the jasmine or white rice to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir frequently, allowing the rice to toast lightly for about 2-3 minutes. This process brings out the rich, nutty flavor of the rice.
- Combine and Cook: Return the cooked mushrooms and bell pepper to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Fluff and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Conclusion
This mushroom and bell pepper rice pilaf is a delightful addition to any meal, offering a burst of flavors and a pleasing texture. The combination of tender mushrooms, sweet bell peppers, and aromatic rice makes it a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Enjoy this easy-to-make pilaf, and bring a touch of elegance and flavor to your dining experience. Happy cooking!