Comforting, Clean, and So Easy to Make
I love a good rice pilaf.
It’s one of those dishes that feels cozy, nourishing, and a little fancy—even though it’s so simple to make. I like serving it with chicken or salmon, but honestly, it’s good enough to enjoy on its own.
And once I started making it in the Instant Pot? Game. Over.
Why Make It Yourself?
Sure, there are boxed pilaf mixes out there. But most of them come with additives, artificial flavors, and that weird, overly seasoned taste that doesn’t feel like real food.
When you make it yourself, you know exactly what’s going into your body—and that’s something I’m big on.
This version uses whole grains, clean ingredients, and whatever fresh veggies you have on hand. You can switch things up based on your taste, your family’s preferences, or what’s left in the fridge.
It’s that kind of flexible, healthy comfort food I’m always reaching for.
How I Make It
This pilaf comes together quickly—and the Instant Pot makes it totally hands-off once it’s sealed.
Step 1: Sauté the veggies
Set your Instant Pot to Sauté (Low) and add a little avocado oil.
Then toss in your chopped onion, carrot, celery, and bell pepper. Cook until everything softens and starts smelling delicious.
Step 2: Add rice + broth
Once the veggies are ready, stir in your brown rice and wild rice. No need to toast—just mix it all in.
Add your broth and thyme.
Step 3: Cook on high pressure
Seal your Instant Pot and set it to High Pressure for 24 minutes.
When the time is up, let it naturally release for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
Step 4: Fluff + season
Fluff it with a fork, taste, and add salt if needed. If it’s not quite soft enough or seems a bit wet, close the lid and let it sit for 5 more minutes. (It’ll stay hot!)
What You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil (plus more if needed)
- ½ onion, finely diced
- 1 small carrot, finely diced
- ½ stalk celery, finely diced
- ½ bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 cup brown rice (long-cooking, not quick)
- ½ cup wild rice
- 2½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt to taste
Why You’ll Love It
- It’s warm and hearty
- Packed with veggies and whole grains
- Simple to make with ingredients you probably already have
- Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free
- Perfect as a side or main dish
This pilaf also makes a beautiful addition to any holiday table—and it’s just as great for meal prep during a busy week.
Let me know if you try it—and how you customize yours!
There’s no one “right” way to make it. Just good, real food that makes you feel nourished and whole.
Ready to try it?
Make a batch this week and let it nourish you—body and soul.
Tag me if you make it—I’d love to see your version and hear how you made it your own!
And if you’re looking for more simple, wholesome recipes that support gut health, hormones, and energy, make sure you’re following along—I’ve got more coming your way!
#HealthyAndWholesome
#InstantPotMeals
#WildRicePilaf
#HormoneHealthy
#GutHealingFoods
#WholesomeComfortFood
#NourishToFlourish
#RootCauseWellness
#FaithBasedHealth
#FunctionalFood
Enjoy!
God didn’t create you to live exhausted, inflamed, and out of balance. You were made for more.”
“As you care for your health, may you feel God’s grace in every bite, every breath, and every breakthrough.”
Yours IN Health
Penny
