This Easy Savory Garlic Butter Rice is super tasty and so simple to make! Just fluffy rice mixed with rich butter, fresh garlic, and a hint of herbs makes this dish a true winner.
Honestly, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl! I can eat this rice every day. Pair it with some veggies or your favorite protein, and you’ve got a meal everyone will love!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: I love using jasmine rice for its floral aroma, but basmati is perfect too! If you’re looking for a healthier option, try brown rice. Just remember, brown rice takes longer to cook, around 40-45 minutes.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you control over the saltiness. If you need a dairy-free option, coconut oil or vegan butter works well! You might even get a slight coconut flavor, which is delicious.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for this dish! If you don’t have fresh cloves, use 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder instead, but the fresh stuff really makes a difference.
Broth: Using low-sodium chicken broth gives the rice a nice flavor boost. If you’re vegetarian, vegetable broth is a great substitute to keep that savory taste!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Rice Perfectly?
Cooking rice can be tricky, but a few simple tips can make it easy! First, rinsing the rice is important to remove excess starch, keeping your rice fluffy rather than sticky. Don’t skip this step!
- Melt the butter on medium heat, then sauté the garlic just until it’s fragrant—this usually takes 1-2 minutes. Watch closely, as it can burn quickly!
- After adding the water or broth and salt, only stir once before boiling. This keeps the grains intact.
- When it simmers, keep the lid on tightly to trap steam. No peeking!
- Let the rice sit covered after cooking to finish steaming; this step is key to perfect texture.
Enjoy making this delightful rice dish!
Easy Savory Garlic Butter Rice
Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (such as jasmine or basmati)
- 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt, to taste (about 1/2 teaspoon)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 25 minutes to have this delicious garlic butter rice ready to enjoy!
Instructions:
1. Rinse the Rice:
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water. Do this until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, which will help keep your rice nice and fluffy. After rinsing, drain the rice well.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, just until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden. Keep an eye on it—burnt garlic can ruin the flavor!
3. Cook the Rice:
Add the rinsed rice to the pan with the garlic butter, stirring well to coat each grain. Pour in the water or chicken broth and add salt to taste. Give it a gentle stir, then bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
4. Simmer It Down:
Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until all the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Let It Rest:
After cooking, remove the saucepan from the heat but keep it covered. Let it sit for 5 minutes to finish steaming. This helps the rice stay perfectly cooked!
6. Fluff and Season:
Once rested, fluff the rice gently with a fork. Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter until it melts and blends in nicely. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
7. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for a colorful touch and extra flavor before serving. This garlic butter rice makes a perfect side dish for chicken, seafood, or any of your favorite vegetables!
Enjoy your delicious garlic butter rice!
FAQ for Easy Savory Garlic Butter Rice
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it requires more water and a longer cooking time. Typically, you’ll need about 2 1/2 cups of water and 40-45 minutes of simmering time. Just be sure to check for doneness and adjust the cooking time as needed!
How to Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make this Garlic Butter Rice vegan, simply substitute the unsalted butter with vegan butter or coconut oil. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious! You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for added richness.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave it or warm it on the stove with a splash of water or broth to help restore moisture.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in some cooked vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. You could also stir in some grated cheese or a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy twist. Get creative!
