Oven-Baked Vegetable Rice Pilaf Recipe

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups Al Muluk Basmati Rice Buy: Al Muluk Basmati Rice · ₺114.99
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped Buy: Onion Powder · ₺55.99
• 2 cloves garlic, minced Buy: Garlic Marinated Chicken · ₺149.99
• 2 tablespoons Biryağ Sunflower Oil Buy: Biryağ Sunflower Oil Large · ₺299.99
• 2 cups Frozen Mixed Vegetables Buy: Frozen Mixed Vegetables · ₺79.99
• 1 tablespoon Kebsa Rice Seasonings Buy: Kebsa Rice Seasonings · ₺55.99
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste) Buy: Salt · ₺29.99
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste) Buy: Ground Black Pepper · ₺89.99
• 3 cups water (or vegetable broth)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly grease a medium baking dish (approx. 9x13 inches).
2. Rinse the Al Muluk Basmati Rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain well.
3. In a large oven-safe pot or a deep skillet (if not oven-safe, you'll transfer later), heat the Biryağ Sunflower Oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
5. Stir in the rinsed and drained rice, Kebsa Rice Seasonings, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, to lightly toast the rice.
6. Add the Frozen Mixed Vegetables and stir to combine with the rice mixture.
7. Pour in the water (or vegetable broth) and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Stir once, then remove from heat.
8. If using an oven-safe pot, cover it tightly with a lid or foil. If not, carefully transfer the rice mixture to your prepared baking dish and cover tightly with foil.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender. Do not lift the lid or foil during baking.
10. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest, still covered, for 5-10 minutes. This allows the steam to finish cooking the rice and makes it fluffier.
11. Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Pro Tips

• For extra flavor, you can use vegetable broth instead of water.
• Ensure your baking dish is tightly covered to trap the steam, which is crucial for perfectly cooked rice.
• Feel free to add a squeeze of lemon juice over the pilaf just before serving for a bright, fresh finish.

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