Description
This garlic butter rice is the perfect way to add rich flavor to plain rice. Infused with garlic, butter, and herbs, this dish is savory, aromatic, and incredibly easy to make. Whether served alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a standalone dish, this flavorful rice will elevate any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup long-grain rice (Jasmine or Basmati works best)
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or parsley (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon turmeric (for color and mild flavor, optional)
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for freshness)
Instructions
- Rinse the Rice: Wash the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents clumping.
- Toast the Garlic and Rice: In a medium saucepan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to toast lightly.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth, then add salt, black pepper, thyme, and turmeric (if using). Stir well to combine.
- Simmer the Rice: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15 minutes (or until the liquid is absorbed).
- Rest the Rice: Remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This helps it absorb the remaining steam and become fluffy.
- Fluff and Serve: Gently fluff the rice with a fork, then stir in the lemon zest (if using) for an extra fresh kick.
- Enjoy! Serve hot as a flavorful side dish with your favorite main courses.
Notes
- For Extra Flavor: Add a splash of soy sauce or a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce before serving.
- Make it Vegan: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and substitute butter with more olive oil.
- Want a Creamy Twist? Stir in ¼ cup of coconut milk for a creamy, tropical variation.
- Storage Tip: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of water to keep the rice fluffy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: garlic butter rice, flavorful rice recipe, easy rice side dish, best rice for dinner, how to make tasty rice