NEAR EAST Rice Pilaf – Portable Side Dish for Camping Trips and Cookouts
NEAR EAST Rice Pilaf – Portable Side Dish for Camping Trips and Cookouts
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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
Can I take NEAR EAST Rice Pilaf camping or to a cabin?
Yes. The boxes are shelf-stable, lightweight, and only require a pot, water, butter, and a heat source — easy to pack for camping, cabin, or RV trips.
Will it hold up at an outdoor potluck or buffet?
Yes. Cooked pilaf holds its texture well at room temperature for short windows and reheats easily, making it a reliable contribution to a backyard gathering.
Can I cook it on a camp stove or grill-side burner?
Yes. The stovetop method works on any portable burner, camp stove, or RV cooktop. You only need to bring water to a boil, add the rice and seasoning, and simmer covered.
Is the Pack of 4 a good value for outdoor entertaining?
Yes. Buying in bulk lowers the per-serving cost, which matters when you are feeding a crowd at a tailgate, patio dinner, or cookout.
Does it pair well with grilled chicken, kebabs, or lamb at an outdoor dinner?
It is a classic bed for grilled meats. The toasted orzo and Mediterranean seasoning complement grilled chicken, kebabs, lamb, and vegetables on the patio.
Can I prep it ahead and transport it to an outdoor event?
Yes. Many home cooks make it the night before, refrigerate it, and reheat it in a covered dish at the gathering — it holds up well as leftovers.
Will humidity or heat at an outdoor event affect the cooked pilaf?
Keep it covered and out of direct sun. A shaded buffet table keeps it food-safe for the typical 1 to 2 hour serving window of an outdoor meal.
Does it work for a tailgate where I have limited cooking gear?
Yes. A single burner, small pot, and a cooler of water are enough. The 20-minute cook time fits within most pre-game prep windows.
Can I cook it in a cast iron skillet over a fire pit?
Yes. Cast iron works well. Add butter, the rice-orzo mix, water, and seasoning, then cover and simmer until the liquid absorbs for a rustic outdoor side.
Is the packaging durable enough for transport in a cooler or pack?
The cardboard box is sturdy enough for typical outdoor transport, and the inner seasoning packet is sealed. For extra protection, slip it into a zip bag.
How does it compare to instant rice for outdoor meals?
It has more flavor and a more interesting texture than instant rice, and it costs only a few cents more per serving for a noticeably better dish.
Is it better than bringing a pre-made rice salad to a potluck?
Yes. Pre-made salads can weep or spoil in warm conditions. A freshly cooked pilaf travels well, holds texture, and serves warm or at room temperature.
Is it a lighter side for an outdoor summer dinner?
Yes. You can reduce the butter and finish with olive oil and fresh herbs for a lighter summer side that pairs with grilled fish or chicken.
Will the box get crushed in my camping gear?
Pack it on top of soft items or inside a small dry bag. If you are worried about crushing, the seasoning packet can be repacked into a zip bag to save the box itself.
What if I do not have refrigeration at the campsite?
Unopened boxes are fully shelf-stable and need no refrigeration. Once cooked, follow standard food safety and consume within 2 hours in outdoor heat.
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.
