Name: Rice Pilaf with Caramelized Onion, Orange, Cherry & Pistachio Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice; 3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 large onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup dried cherries; 1/2 cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice; 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin; Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping side, look no further than Rice Pilaf with Caramelized Onion, Orange, Cherry & Pistachio. This festive pilaf is a symphony of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors all in one beautiful bowl. Each spoonful promises fluffy rice layered with deeply golden onions, juicy pops of cherry, bright hits of orange, and the irresistible crunch of pistachios. It’s a recipe that feels special enough for a holiday table but is easy and foolproof for weeknight dinners. Trust me, you’ll find yourself making it again and again!

Rice Pilaf with Caramelized Onion, Orange, Cherry & Pistachio Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for Rice Pilaf with Caramelized Onion, Orange, Cherry & Pistachio are delightfully simple but come together in the most magical way. Every item plays a starring role, building both complexity and color into the finished dish.

Long-grain white rice: For fluffy, separate grains that soak up all the gorgeous flavors.
Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth: Infuses the rice with savory depth without overpowering the delicate ingredients.
Unsalted butter: Adds a luxurious richness and helps the onions caramelize perfectly.
Olive oil: Gives an extra layer of flavor and prevents the butter from burning.
Large onion (thinly sliced): Slow caramelization transforms it into sweet, melt-in-your-mouth golden ribbons.
Dried cherries: Bursts of tart sweetness complement the earthy and nutty notes.
Shelled pistachios (roughly chopped): Lend a vibrant green color and a delightful crunch in every bite.
Orange zest: Brings an uplifting citrus fragrance that brightens the entire dish.
Fresh orange juice: A splash for a juicy, tangy note that balances the sweetness.
Ground cinnamon: Infuses gentle warmth that plays beautifully with both fruit and rice.
Ground cumin: Introduces earthy complexity and subtle spice.
Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors into perfect harmony.
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish): A final sprinkle of freshness and color to finish the dish beautifully.

How to Make Rice Pilaf with Caramelized Onion, Orange, Cherry & Pistachio

Step 1: Rinse the Rice

Start by giving the rice a good rinse under cold water until the water runs crystal clear. This removes excess starch and guarantees your pilaf is gloriously fluffy rather than sticky. Drain the rice well in a fine-mesh sieve and leave it to sit while you get started on the onions.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

Set a large skillet over medium-low heat and melt the butter with the olive oil. Add the sliced onions and take your time: cook them slowly, stirring every now and then, for 20 to 25 minutes until they turn deep golden brown and irresistibly sweet. This step is the heart of Rice Pilaf with Caramelized Onion, Orange, Cherry & Pistachio, so don’t rush! Once caramelized, set aside half the onions for topping later.

Step 3: Toast the Rice and Spices

With the remaining onions still in the pan, stir in the rinsed rice along with ground cinnamon, cumin, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté everything together for 2 to 3 minutes, letting the grains get coated in all those aromatic flavors. You’ll smell the warmth of the spices and the fragrant onions coming together!

Step 4: Simmer with Broth

Pour in the broth and bring it all to a gentle boil. Give the rice a quick stir, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 15 to 18 minutes. The rice will absorb the broth and turn perfectly tender. After cooking, remove the pan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to finish steaming.

Step 5: Add Fruit, Nuts, and Citrus

Gently fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains, then stir in the dried cherries, chopped pistachios, orange zest, and orange juice. This final flourish is what takes Rice Pilaf with Caramelized Onion, Orange, Cherry & Pistachio right over the top, delivering bursts of sweet, zingy, and crunchy elements.

Step 6: Finish and Garnish

Spoon the reserved caramelized onions over the top for extra depth and beauty. Scatter the fresh parsley to add color and freshness just before serving. Stand back and admire your masterpiece—it’s as gorgeous as it is delicious!

How to Serve Rice Pilaf with Caramelized Onion, Orange, Cherry & Pistachio

Garnishes

A sprinkle of vibrant chopped parsley wakes up the dish and highlights its fresh flavors. Consider extra orange zest, a dusting of toasted pistachios, or a few whole dried cherries on top for even more visual and flavor appeal. Garnishing really elevates Rice Pilaf with Caramelized Onion, Orange, Cherry & Pistachio and makes it feel truly special.

Side Dishes

This pilaf is designed to pair with everything from roasted chicken and lamb to grilled fish. It’s also wonderful with simple roasted vegetables or tossed in a light salad for a satisfying vegetarian meal. You’ll find Rice Pilaf with Caramelized Onion, Orange, Cherry & Pistachio holds its own next to bold, savory mains and adds festive flair to any spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the pilaf in a heaping mound on a wide platter, topped with extra garnishes. You can even scoop it into mini cups or bowls for a dinner party appetizer. For holiday gatherings, a large shallow dish allows the colorful toppings of Rice Pilaf with Caramelized Onion, Orange, Cherry & Pistachio to shine—making it as much a feast for the eyes as for the palate!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, leftover pilaf can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors only deepen and become more harmonious overnight, making it a tasty addition to lunches and quick meals throughout the week.

Freezing

This dish also freezes well! Cool the pilaf completely and package in freezer-safe bags or containers. It will keep for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Rice Pilaf with Caramelized Onion, Orange, Cherry & Pistachio gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to help loosen any clumps. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until just heated through. Finish with fresh parsley to revive the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice is a lovely whole grain substitute. Just keep in mind it will require a longer cooking time and a bit more liquid, so plan accordingly. The nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the cherries and pistachios.

How do I make it vegan?

This recipe easily goes vegan by swapping the butter for more olive oil or a plant-based alternative and using vegetable broth. The result will be just as flavorful and satisfying!

Can I substitute another dried fruit for cherries?

Yes, you can experiment with golden raisins, cranberries, or chopped dried apricots if cherries aren’t your thing or aren’t on hand. Each offers a slightly different sweetness, which is always delightful in Rice Pilaf with Caramelized Onion, Orange, Cherry & Pistachio.

Is it possible to make this nut-free?

If you need to avoid nuts, simply omit the pistachios or replace them with roasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for crunch without the allergens.

Can I prep any parts of the recipe in advance?

Definitely! The onions can be caramelized up to two days ahead and stored in the fridge. You can also pre-chop pistachios and zest the orange so assembly is fast and stress-free.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for something truly memorable to serve, Rice Pilaf with Caramelized Onion, Orange, Cherry & Pistachio is your new go-to. Brimming with color, flavor, and texture, it’s a plate of pure joy you’ll love sharing with family and friends. Give it a try and watch it wow everyone at the table!

Rice Pilaf with Caramelized Onion, Orange, Cherry & Pistachio Recipe

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4.7 from 20 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Rice Pilaf with Caramelized Onion, Orange, Cherry & Pistachio is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines sweet and savory elements in a delightful Mediterranean-inspired recipe.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth

For Caramelized Onion:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, thinly sliced

Additional Ingredients:

1/2 cup dried cherries
1/2 cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped
1 tablespoon orange zest
2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Rinse the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear; drain well.
Caramelize the Onions: In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onion and cook slowly until caramelized and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes. Set aside half of the onions for topping.
Cook the Rice: Stir in the rice, cinnamon, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes. Add the broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender.
Finish the Dish: Remove from heat, let sit for 5 minutes, then fluff the rice with a fork. Gently stir in the cherries, pistachios, orange zest, and juice. Top with reserved caramelized onions and parsley before serving.