Instant-Pot turmeric rice pilaf is a tasty side dish to any dinner!  Serve this versatile rice as-is, or spruce it up with any vegetables you have on hand. This easy vegan recipe also includes stovetop instructions!

I used to think rice pilaf got its name from the addition of, what I assumed was “big puffy rice”.  I had no idea the actual definition of “pilaf”.

In case you’re curious as well ––pilaf means rice cooked in a broth with seasonings.  It really has nothing to do with those big puffy pieces.

Those puffy pieces are actually called orzo.

what is orzo?

Orzo is a ‘rice-shaped’ pasta.  Yes! It’s a PASTA!

It can found in the pasta section of your local food market.  Use it alone in a dish, or add to soups and–– of course this Instant-Pot turmeric rice pilaf.

Orzo isn’t required in rice pilaf, but it does add an appealing “toasted rice” look to the dish.  However, if you are gluten-free it can easily be subbed out for more rice.

PS- If you didn’t know orzo wasn’t a rice don’t feel bad. I had no idea either! 

what rice to use?

I’ve found rice pilaf is best with a long grain white rice.  I prefer basmati, but jasmine is also a good choice.  And if you’re feeling extra fancy, replace 1/4 cup of the white rice with wild rice.

to toast or not to toast?

I say toast!
…the rice and orzo that is.

If you want to achieve what I consider a ‘classic rice pilaf look’, toasting (or sautéing) the rice and orzo before cooking is a must.

how to toast

Add the oil, rice and orzo to your IP and set to sauté.  With frequent stirring, it should only take 7-10 minute for everything to brown.
Then toss in the remaining ingredients and set the IP to 8 minutes high pressure.

why should you make this turmeric rice pilaf?

• made in the Instant-Pot (and we love IP recipes)
• seasoned with spices you have on hand (so it’s simple)
• colored with turmeric (keeping it natural with added health benefits)
• delicious as a side to any meal (or add veggies and make it a meal)

Instant-Pot rice pilaf ideas

For an easy weeknight dinner serve this Instant-Pot rice pilaf along side my lemon pineapple tofu.
Add carrots, peas, onions, mushrooms or any vegetable you have on hand. Serve with a baked potato.

Add toasted almond slivers for a nuttier flavor.
Toss in chopped kale for a healthier twist.

If you enjoyed this recipe be sure to check out my Instant-Pot Spanish rice.  It’s a great side to tacos, burritos, enchiladas and more!

don’t forget!

If you make this recipe, rate it and to tell us what you think below!   Also, be sure to snap a photo and share it with us!  We love to see your creations! 

You can find us on Pinterest, Facebook and Instagram.

Yield: 8 servings

Instant-Pot Turmeric Rice Pilaf (stovetop instructions included)

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Complete tonight's dinner with this Instant-Pot Turmeric Rice Pilaf. Serve as-is, or spruce it up with any vegetables you've been needing to use up. Includes stovetop instructions below.

Prep Time 25 minutes

Cook Time 8 minutes

Total Time 33 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 and 1/4 cup long grain white rice such as basmati or jasmine**
• 1/4 cup orzo
• 1-2 Tablespoons neutral oil for sautéing
• 2 cups low sodium vegetable broth
• 1 cup water
• 2 teaspoon onion powder
• 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3/4 teaspoon pink salt, use 1/4-1/2 teaspoon if you’re not using low sodium broth
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley, or 1 Tablespoons fresh chopped
• 1/3 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• pepper to taste

Instructions

Instant-Pot Instructions

1. Add the oil, rice and orzo to the IP. Sauté until the rice and orzo begin to brown, about 8 minutes.
2. Once browned press cancel on your IP and mix in the remaining ingredients. 
3. Set the IP to pressure cook for 8 minutes on high pressure. Then allow for natural pressure release.
4. Carefully open the lid and mix/fluff the rice. 
5. Serve immediately.

ENJOY!

Stovetop Instructions

1. Add the oil, rice and orzo to a large lidded pot. Sauté over medium heat until the rice and orzo begin to brown, about 8 minutes.
2. Once browned turn the heat down and mix in the remaining ingredients. 
3. Increase the heat and bring to a boil. Then lower the heat, cover and allow the rice to a simmer for 10-15 minutes or until it's fully cooked. 
4. Carefully remove the lid and mix/fluff the rice. 
5. Serve immediately.

ENJOY!

Notes

*For stovetop, you may need to increase the liquid by 1/4-1/2 cup since it will steam off during the cooking process.

**White rice can be replaced with brown rice. However, you will need to increase the Instant-Pot cook time to 22 minutes.

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