Print

Butter Rice

Print Recipe

Butter Rice is a quick and comforting side dish that transforms simple long-grain rice into a rich, creamy, and flavorful meal with the use of butter and seasoning. Perfectly fluffy and buttery, it pairs well with a variety of main dishes or can be enjoyed on its own. Easy to prepare in under 30 minutes with minimal ingredients, this recipe is a versatile staple for any kitchen.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or salted, adjust salt accordingly)
  • 2 cups water or broth (vegetable or chicken)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste

Optional Aromatics and Add-ins

  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
  • Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or chives) for garnish (optional)
  • Grated Parmesan or mild cheese (optional)
  • Chili flakes or cayenne pepper (optional for spicy version)
  • Vegetables like peas, corn, or sautéed mushrooms (optional for extra nutrients)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch and prevent clumping, ensuring fluffy, separate grains.
  2. Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat to create a rich base that toasts the rice and enhances flavor.
  3. Toast the Rice: Add the rinsed rice to the melted butter and stir gently for 1-2 minutes to coat every grain and develop a subtle nuttiness.
  4. Add Liquid and Salt: Pour in boiling water or broth, sprinkle in salt, and optionally add garlic or onion powder. Stir gently, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover tightly and simmer without lifting the lid.
  5. Let It Steam: Cook the rice for 15-18 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Turn off the heat but keep it covered to allow the rice to steam for another 5 minutes.
  6. Fluff and Serve: Use a fork to fluff the butter rice gently, separating the grains and locking in the buttery flavor before serving. Garnish as desired.

Notes

  • Measure rice and liquid precisely for perfect texture (generally a 1:2 ratio).
  • Use room temperature butter to ensure even melting and prevent clumps.
  • Cover the pot tightly during cooking to trap steam and cook rice evenly.
  • Avoid stirring rice while it cooks to prevent gumminess.
  • Allow rice to rest and steam after cooking for fluffy results.
  • To make vegan, substitute butter with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth.
  • Brown rice can be used, but requires longer cooking time (40-45 minutes) and additional liquid.
  • Enhance flavor by adding spices like turmeric, cumin, or smoked paprika.

Nutrition

Keywords: butter rice, easy rice recipe, creamy rice, side dish, quick rice, kid-friendly rice, comfort food, simple rice recipe

Find it online: https://juliaglam.com/butter-rice/