Description

Transform plain white rice into a star side dish with this simple, flavorful recipe using just rice, butter, and garlic. Toasting the grains unlocks a nutty depth of flavor that makes it the perfect companion for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups long-grain white rice (such as Jasmine or Basmati)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3–4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth (low-sodium recommended)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
0.5 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley or chives (optional)

Instructions

Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
Mince the fresh garlic cloves as finely as possible.
Heat the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once melted and foaming, add the drained rice and stir constantly for about 5 minutes until the rice looks translucent and smells nutty.
Add the minced garlic to the pot and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Pour in the broth, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and simmer undisturbed for 18 minutes.
Turn off the heat and let the pot sit, covered, for another 5 minutes to allow moisture to redistribute.
Remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Serve immediately.
Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.

Notes

Do not lift the lid during the simmering process to retain steam. If using salted butter, reduce the added salt. For a dairy-free option, swap butter for olive oil or coconut oil. Ensure broth is gluten-free if required.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 250
Sugar: 1
Sodium: 600
Fat: 8
Saturated Fat: 5
Carbohydrates: 40
Fiber: 1
Protein: 5

Keywords: seasoned rice, garlic rice, side dish, easy rice recipe, homemade rice, butter rice, weeknight dinner, meal prep