Gulf Coast Style White Rice Pilaf Arroz Blanco

Experience the comforting flavors of the Gulf Coast with this Gulf Coast Style White Rice Pilaf (Arroz Blanco), a fragrant and fluffy side dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Made with long-grain white rice lightly toasted in butter and infused with aromatic onions, garlic, and a hint of bay leaf, this recipe delivers a subtle depth of flavor in every bite. With a warm vegetable or chicken broth tying it all together, this rice pilaf is perfectly seasoned to complement a variety of main dishes. The optional garnish of fresh cilantro adds a zesty, vibrant finish, while the rinsing and toasting techniques ensure tender, non-sticky grains. Ready in just 30 minutes and perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to special occasions, this arroz blanco is a must-try addition to your table.

Nutriscore Rating: 61/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups long-grain white rice
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 0.5 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2.5 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
• 1 piece bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the rice under cold water using a fine-mesh sieve until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming gummy. Set aside to drain completely.

Step 2

In a medium saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, melt the butter over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring frequently, for about 3-4 minutes or until softened and translucent.

Step 4

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.

Step 5

Add the drained rice to the pan and stir well to coat each grain in the butter. Toast the rice for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until it becomes lightly golden and fragrant.

Step 6

Pour the warm broth into the pan with the rice and add the bay leaf and salt. Stir gently to combine.

Step 7

Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with the lid, and simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.

Step 8

After 15 minutes, remove the pan from heat but leave the lid on. Let the rice rest for 5 minutes to finish steaming.

Step 9

Fluff the rice gently with a fork, discard the bay leaf, and transfer to a serving dish.

Step 10

Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1016.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	672.3

Total Fat 26.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 14.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat g
Cholesterol 62mg	0%
Sodium 4520.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 96.7g	0%
Dietary Fiber 3.3g	0%
Total Sugars 4.6g
Protein 12.6g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 92.1mg	0%
Iron 4.5mg	0%
Potassium 502.6mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 35.0%

Protein: 7.5%

Carbs: 57.5%