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Rich and Savory Golden Onion Butter Rice

Rich and Savory Golden Onion Butter Rice

5.1 from 20 reviews

Golden Onion Butter Rice is a rich, savory side dish that perfectly balances the sweetness of caramelized onions with the creamy indulgence of butter. This easy-to-make rice dish features long-grain rice cooked in flavorful broth, enhanced by slow-sautéed golden onions and aromatic garlic, making it an ideal accompaniment for a variety of meals. Its comforting texture and vibrant flavor profile bring warmth and depth to any table, suitable for family dinners or festive occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Rice and Broth

  • 1 ½ cups long-grain rice
  • 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Fats and Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Garnish

  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat Butter and Olive Oil: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat, creating a rich base for flavor development.
  2. Sauté Onions: Add the finely chopped onions to the pan and cook slowly, stirring frequently, until they turn golden brown and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. This step unlocks their natural sweetness and forms the signature flavor of the dish.
  3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, ensuring the garlic flavor infuses but doesn’t burn.
  4. Toast the Rice: Add the long-grain rice to the pan and stir for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the grains, which helps enhance texture and flavor absorption.
  5. Cook with Broth: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, then season with salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil to activate the cooking process.
  6. Simmer the Rice: Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the rice simmer gently for 18-20 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
  7. Rest and Fluff: Remove the pan from heat and allow the rice to sit, covered, for 5 minutes to steam and set. Fluff with a fork to separate the grains and lighten the texture.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor before serving your Golden Onion Butter Rice.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
  • Adjust salt according to the saltiness of your broth to avoid over-seasoning.
  • Be patient when caramelizing onions; low and slow heat yields the best flavor without burning.
  • Use fresh parsley as garnish to brighten the dish visually and add a mild herbal note.
  • This rice pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or hearty stews.

Nutrition

Keywords: Golden Onion Butter Rice, caramelized onion rice, butter rice recipe, savory rice dish, easy side dish, vegetarian rice, flavorful rice, comfort food