Fluffy Turkish Rice Pilaf with Chicken Broth

This Turkish rice pilaf is a comforting classic that brings the warmth of home to any meal. Made with baldo rice, a variety known for its perfect texture, this pilaf is tender and fluffy with each grain staying separate. The key to its deliciousness is using chicken broth, which adds depth and richness to the rice, making every bite feel like a cozy hug. Baldo rice may be a staple in Turkish kitchens, but it’s becoming more common outside of Turkey and can be found in specialty grocery stores or international markets. Perfect for family dinners or when you want to impress with minimal effort, this pilaf is one of those timeless dishes that never fails to satisfy.

Fluffy Turkish rice pilaf made with Baldo rice and chicken broth, served light and tender in a bowl.

Ingredients

For soaking:

• 1 cup baldo rice

• Warm water

• Salt

For cooking:

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 1/3 cups hot water or chicken broth

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Rinse the Rice:

Rinse the baldo rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in warm salted water for about 20 minutes to help the grains cook evenly. After soaking, drain the rice thoroughly to remove any excess water.

Melt the Butter:

In a medium pot, melt the butter over medium heat until it’s completely melted and fragrant. Add the drained rice to the pot and sauté gently, stirring occasionally, until the grains begin to turn slightly translucent at the edges.

Add Hot Water or Chicken Broth:

Pour in a bit more than 1 cup (1 1/3 cups) of hot water or chicken broth. For a deeper flavor, I recommend using chicken broth, which gives the pilaf a rich, comforting taste. Add salt to taste and a pinch of black pepper, adjusting the amount based on your preference and the saltiness of the broth.

Simmer:

Lower the heat to the minimum and cover the pot. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, until the rice has absorbed all the liquid and is tender.

Rest the Pilaf:

Once the rice is cooked, turn off the heat. Place a paper towel between the lid and the pot to trap the steam, and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This step ensures the rice remains fluffy and doesn’t become too sticky.

Fluff and Serve:

Gently fluff the rice with a fork before serving. It’s now ready to be enjoyed alongside your favorite dishes!

Whether you’re pairing it with roasted chicken or a simple vegetable stir-fry, this pilaf will make your meal feel complete. Enjoy!