Homemade Rice Pilaf

                         Did you know how easy it is to make your own rice pilaf?  You will never
                         need to buy the box stuff again. Quick, simple and most of the ingredients
                         are pantry staples. Rice Pilaf is a great side dish that everyone will love.

                                                                   Homemade Rice Pilaf

                                                                   2 tablespoons butter
                                                                   1/2 cup orzo
                                                                   1/2 cup white rice
                                                                   1 large shallot, diced
                                                                   1/2 teaspoon onion powder
                                                                   1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
                                                                   salt and pepper
                                                                   2 to 3 garlic cloves, minced
                                                                   2 cups chicken broth


                     1) Melt butter in skillet over medium low heat. Cook and stir orzo until
                     golden brown. Add onion and cook until soft, add garlic and spices, cook
                     for another minute. Mix in rice and broth. Increase heat and bring to a boil.
                     Reduce heat to medium/low, cover and cook until rice is tender. Cook for
                     about 20 to 25 minutes. Remove from heat and fluff with fork.

                     Note - I like to double the recipe and add in extra things. Parmesan cheese,
                     green onion. You could use beef or vegetable broth. Add Cooked carrots or
                     peas. Whatever you like to mix it up. It's perfect the way it is but fun to add
                     in your favorites.