Rice and Noodle Pilaf with Toasted Almonds

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo
• 1 Turkish bay leaf or 1/2 California
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
• 2 4-inch strips lemon zest
• ½ cup whole almonds with skins toasted
• 5 ½ cups water
• + 1 more ingredients
• • 1 3- to 4-inch cinnamon stick

Melt butter in a 4- to 5-quart heavy pot over medium heat and stir in orzo. Cook, stirring frequently, until orzo is golden, about 5 minutes. Add rice, stirring until coated with butter, then add zest, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, water, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Bring to a boil...

View full recipe at Epicurious