Copycat Pita Inn Rice Recipe (Mediterranean Yellow Rice)

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Recreate the delicious Pita Inn rice recipe with this easy and delicious copycat version. You’ll get the same authentic flavors of their signature yellow Mediterranean rice – and you can make it anytime in the comfort of your own kitchen. Plus, this simple one-pot recipe not only delivers on the flavor but also keeps the cleanup to a minimum. Let’s get started!

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About Pita Inn

Pita Inn is a well-known restaurant chain that specializes in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. They now have multiple locations, but the original started in Skokie, IL.

We personally love the restaurant because they have such flavorful and authentic dishes, but our favorites are the kebabs and anything with Pita Inn’s rice in it!

Since my husband and I live in Seattle, we knew we had to try and recreate the Pita Inn rice recipe so we could make it at home too. We finally got as close as the real thing and are excited to share this copycat Pita Inn rice recipe with you.

Ingredients in this Copycat Pita Inn Rice

• Basmati Rice: Fragrant and long-grain, Basmati rice is an important base to recreate the Pita Inn rice recipe. If you don’t have Basmati rice, you can substitute it with another type of long-grain rice.
• Chicken Broth: Infuses the rice with savory depth and complements the spices for a rich flavor. You can also use vegetable broth.
• Turmeric: Adds a vibrant yellow color (and extra nutritional benefits!)
• Olive Oil: Used to saute the aromatics and drizzled over the rice, it adds a subtle richness and enhances overall taste and texture.
• Optional Garnish (our additions):
  • Toasted Pine Nuts: Adds a nice crunch and nutty flavor
  • Fresh Herbs: Parsley or cilantro garnish adds a burst of freshness and color.
  • Lemon Wedges: Served alongside add a refreshing layer to the rice.

How to Make Pita Inn Rice:

1. Saute the Aromatic Base: In a pot over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Sauté the bay leaf and a pinch of kosher salt for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Toast Rice: Stir in drained rice, letting the grains toast slightly. Add turmeric for the signature bright yellow color.
3. Cook Rice: Add the turmeric, then pour in chicken broth and water. Bring to a boil, then simmer until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Fluff Rice: Fluff rice with a fork, and drizzle with extra olive oil.
5. Garnish: While this is optional, we love topping the Pita Inn rice with toasted pine nuts and fresh herbs. Serve with lemon wedges too for that extra burst of flavor!

How to Store the Prepared Rice

Storage is key to enjoying your Pita Inn Rice to the fullest on the next go-around. Once you’re done making the yellow rice recipe, make sure it’s cooled down before storing it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. I love making a big batch as meal prep. I typically freeze 1/3, and refrigerate 1/3, and eat the rest!

• Leftover rice will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days
• Leftover rice will keep in the freezer for up to 3-6 months.

For reheating, just sprinkle a little water to bring back moisture and use a microwave or stovetop.

Generally, we prefer the stove top method as it allows us to gently warm the rice while keeping it fluffy. But, if we’re in a rush, the microwave does just fine. Just remember to cover the dish with a lid or damp paper towel when using the microwave to help keep the steam in.

Serving Suggestions

For the best experience, we like to add bold flavors to serve with our Pita Inn Rice. You can’t go wrong with some grilled chicken, beef, or lamb for a heartier meal.

But if we’re aiming for something lighter, a mix of roasted veggies or a simple cucumber yogurt salad will do the trick. These pairings not only complement the dish but also make for a well-rounded meal!

• Meats: Chicken shawarma, kefta kabobs, beef shish kabob, lamb kebabs
• Veggies: Roasted eggplant, garlic, bell peppers, zucchini, onions, peas, carrots
• Sides: Hummus, tahini sauce, hot sauce, tzatziki, tabbouleh salad

Modifying for Dietary Needs

We’re all about making sure everyone can enjoy this dish. If you’re vegan or vegetarian, you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Now, if you’re gluten-free, this recipe is naturally a good fit since rice doesn’t contain gluten, but always double-check your broth and seasonings just to be safe.

Dietary Need	Modifications
Vegetarian	Use vegetable broth
Vegan	Vegetable broth and check toppings
Gluten-free	Make sure broth and seasonings are gluten-free

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Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions? Here are the answers to your most asked questions on making your own Pita Inn rice at home. Whether you’re using a  seeking the simplest method, or wanting to add extra flavors, we have you covered.

How can I make Pita Inn style rice in a rice cooker?

Yes. To make Pita Inn-style rice in a rice cooker, start by rinsing your rice until the water runs clear. Then , just add all the ingredients to the rice cooker pot, set it to the standard white rice setting and let it work its magic.

What’s the simplest way to prepare a Pita Inn rice dish?

Pita Inn has a lot of different rice dishes. One of the simplest Pita Inn-inspired rice dish we like to make is the Falafel Plate. We buy pre-made falafels, then add them on top of the copycat Pita Inn rice (which we make in large batches). Serve this alongisde some salad and drizzle with tahini sauce and hot sauce.

Can you include chicken in a Pita Inn rice recipe?

Yes! You can absolutely include chicken in this rice recipe for a protein-packed meal. We suggest marinating chicken pieces in Mediterranean spices, browning them, and then sauteeing them along as your rice cooks.

You can also cook them in the same pot of rice, though it won’t come out with a crisp exterior this way.

What’s the secret to authentic Mediterranean rice pilaf like at Pita Inn?

The secret to an authentic Mediterranean rice pilaf like Pita Inn’s is in using good quality rice and turmeric. You can also add other spices like cumin and a touch of cinnamon. Also crucial is the technique of sautéing the rice in olive oil until it’s toasty before adding any liquids.

What ingredients give Pita Inn rice its distinctive yellow color?

Pita Inn rice gets its distinctive yellow color primarily from turmeric, with the possibility of a hint of saffron for an additional splash of color. In this copycat Pita Inn rice recipe, we just use turmeric since saffron is not as easily accessible.

What are some flavorful additions to spruce up a basic rice recipe?

Consider adding toasted nuts like pine nuts or slivered almonds for crunch, fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor, or a sprinkle of dried fruit like raisins for a sweet contrast. And of course… your protein toppings of choice!

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