NEAR EAST Rice Pilaf – Quick Desk-Side Lunch for Home Office Weeks, Ready in 20 Minutes
NEAR EAST Rice Pilaf – Quick Desk-Side Lunch for Home Office Weeks, Ready in 20 Minutes
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Why you'll love it
- Ready in minutes with minimal prep — just add water and butter
- Authentic Middle Eastern flavor profile built into the seasoning blend
- Kosher OU certification expands meal options for observant households
- Shelf-stable box stores easily in the pantry for unplanned meals
- Toasted orzo adds texture and a more premium feel than plain rice
- Bulk Pack of 4 reduces per-serving cost for frequent users
- texture is described as the best
- cooks up fluffy
- seasoning adds nice aroma to the kitchen
- convenient - just add water and simmer
- few cents cheaper than other places
- delivery to door is appreciated
- at least 6 month expiration date when purchased
- cooks in 20 minutes
- more flavorful than Rice-A-Roni for some buyers
- prefers this brand over Rice a Roni
Perfect for
- Quick stovetop or microwave side dish for weeknight dinners
- Bed for grilled chicken, kebabs, or lamb entrees
- Potluck or buffet contribution at gatherings
- Shelf-stable pantry staple for last-minute meals
- Base for Mediterranean-style grain bowls
- paired with salmon and honey glazed carrots for a complete meal
- served at dinner parties as a side dish
- used as a lite meal/snack on its own
- made with designer water and olive oil for a filling snack
Product Information
2 - 6.09oz Boxes of RICE PILAF Mix ORIGINAL by Near East Near East's original rice pilaf is made from premium parboiled long grain rice, toasted orzo and a delicious blend of herbs & spices. Kosher Certified *OU*
Product Dimensions : 5.9 x 3.8 x 1 inches; 6.09 ounces Item model number : 1 UPC : 072251001051 Units : 6.09 Ounce Best Sellers Rank: #9,267 in Grocery & Gourmet Food Flavor Origina Item Weight 6.09 Ounces Number of Items 1 Package Weight 0.19 Kilograms Variety Rice Pilaf Cuisine Middle Eastern Specialty Kosher Allergen Information Wheat 2 - 6.09oz Boxes of RICE PILAF Mix ORIGINAL by Near East Near East's original rice pilaf is made from premium parboiled long grain rice, toasted orzo and a delicious blend of herbs & spices. Kosher Certified *OU*
Frequently Asked Questions
Will NEAR EAST Rice Pilaf distract me from work while it cooks?
No — the stovetop or microwave method simmers quietly in the background for about 20 minutes, so you can keep working on your laptop or studies without constant monitoring.
Can I keep a box at my desk for a fast lunch between meetings?
Yes. The 6.09 oz box is shelf-stable and pre-portioned, making it easy to store in a pantry, desk drawer, or shared office kitchen for unplanned meals.
Does the seasoning packet create a strong aroma that lingers in a small home office?
The herbs and spices release a pleasant, mild Mediterranean aroma that dissipates within minutes of cooking, so it will not overwhelm a small workspace.
How fast can I go from starting dinner to eating when I'm working late?
Most home cooks have the pilaf on the table in about 20 minutes from kettle to plate, which makes it a realistic option for a focused work-night dinner break.
Can I meal prep multiple boxes on Sunday for the work week?
Yes. The bulk Pack of 4 lowers the per-serving cost, and the rice holds up well as leftovers — many home cooks revive it with a handful of spinach for lunches.
Is this a good option for a college student living in a dorm?
Absolutely. It only needs boiling water, butter, and a small pot or microwave-safe bowl, which fits typical dorm and first-apartment cooking setups.
Does the pilaf actually fill you up between classes or study sessions?
The toasted orzo mixed with long grain rice creates a more substantial side than plain rice, and many customers use it as a light meal on its own with olive oil and a protein.
Will I need any special equipment to cook it during a busy week?
No special equipment is required. A small saucepan, water, and butter are all you need for the stovetop method, and it also works in most rice cookers.
Is NEAR EAST Rice Pilaf cheaper per serving than ordering takeout on a work night?
Yes. A single box yields multiple side-dish servings at a fraction of typical delivery cost, and the Pack of 4 brings the per-serving price down even further.
How long does a box stay fresh in my pantry between work weeks?
Customers consistently report at least a 6-month expiration date from purchase, so you can comfortably stockpile the Pack of 4 without waste.
How does this compare to microwavable rice cups for a busy schedule?
Unlike single-serve rice cups, NEAR EAST Rice Pilaf yields a larger portion from one box, includes a toasted orzo and seasoning blend, and costs less per serving.
Is it easier to make than ordering DoorDash on a packed day?
For many customers, yes. Twenty minutes of mostly hands-off simmering beats waiting for delivery, and you control the ingredients and portion size.
Will I waste food if my schedule changes mid-week?
The box is shelf-stable until opened, so an unexpected schedule change will not spoil it. Once cooked, leftovers reheat well and can be repurposed into grain bowls.
Is 20 minutes really realistic when I only have a short break?
Yes. Active hands-on time is roughly 2 to 3 minutes; the rest is unattended simmering, so you can step away to finish a task and return to a ready side dish.
Can the seasoning packet be skipped if I want plain rice while working?
You can use only a portion of the seasoning packet, but most reviewers say the blend is what makes the product worth choosing over plain minute rice.
How do I cook NEAR EAST Rice Pilaf on the stovetop?
Bring 1 3/4 cups of water and 1 tablespoon of butter or olive oil to a boil in a saucepan. Stir in the rice-orzo mix and the enclosed seasoning packet, return to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.
Can I make it in the microwave?
Yes. Combine the rice-orzo mix, seasoning packet, 2 cups of water, and 1 tablespoon of butter in a microwave-safe dish. Cover and microwave on high for about 20 to 25 minutes, stirring once halfway through, then let stand covered for 5 minutes before fluffing.
Can I cook it in a rice cooker?
Yes. Add the rice-orzo mix, seasoning packet, the water amount recommended on the box, and a pat of butter to the rice cooker. Use the regular white rice setting and fluff when the cycle finishes. Customers report good results even in small cookers like the Rice Robot.
Is it compatible with a gluten-free diet?
No. The product contains wheat from the orzo pasta, so it is not suitable for gluten-free diets. Always review the ingredient label for the most current allergen information.
Does it work in a cast iron skillet?
Yes. Many home cooks use a cast iron skillet with butter, the rice mix, water, and seasoning, then cover and simmer. It also works well for breakfast preparations with green onion and a fried egg on top.
What is in the box when I open it?
Each 6.09 oz box contains a parboiled long grain rice and toasted orzo blend and a separate seasoning packet with the Mediterranean herb and spice mix. You supply water and butter or olive oil.
Does it contain any major allergens?
Yes. The product contains wheat from the orzo pasta. It is OU Kosher certified. Always check the package for the most current allergen and ingredient information.
How long will the box stay fresh in my pantry?
Boxes are shelf-stable, and customers consistently report at least a 6-month expiration date from purchase. Store in a cool, dry place for best quality.
What is the difference between orzo pilaf and plain rice pilaf?
Orzo pilaf mixes toasted orzo pasta with long grain rice for a chewier texture, more visual appeal, and a more substantial bite. Plain rice pilaf uses only rice and typically delivers a softer, more uniform texture.
