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Close up of a plate of French Provencal Rice Pilaf with a basil leaf garnish

French Provencal Rice Pilaf

Vegan French Provencal Rice Pilaf is a flavorful and aromatic dish that beautifully blends the traditional pilaf cooking method with the vibrant flavors of the French Provencal region. This delightful rice dish is sautéed with onions, garlic, and an array of aromatic herbs before being simmered in vegetable broth, resulting in individual, fluffy grains infused with a rich and savory essence.
Servings 4
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (such as jasmine or basmati)
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup pitted black olives, chopped
  • fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Rinse the rice thoroughly in cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.
  • In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
  • Add the diced red and yellow bell peppers and diced zucchini to the skillet. Sauté for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
  • Stir in the dried thyme, dried rosemary, and dried oregano. Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
  • Carefully pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.
  • Season the rice pilaf with salt and black pepper to taste. Gently fold in the chopped cherry tomatoes and sliced black olives. Allow the pilaf to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes are warmed through.
  • Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit, covered, for a few minutes. Before serving, garnish the Vegan French Provencal Rice Pilaf with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness and color.