This Easy Savory Garlic Butter Rice is a tasty side dish that’s packed with flavor. It’s made with fluffy rice, rich butter, and a good amount of garlic to give it that wonderful aroma!
I love serving this rice with my favorite meals. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, so even if you’re running late, you can have a delicious side ready in no time. Who can resist garlic butter? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: Long-grain white rice is perfect for this dish because it cooks up fluffy and separate. Jasmine and basmati are my favorite options. If you prefer brown rice, just remember it will take longer to cook—around 40-45 minutes.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best, as it lets you control the saltiness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using olive oil or coconut oil instead. They bring their own unique flavor!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best taste. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder can work in a pinch—about 1 teaspoon should be enough. But fresh is definitely my preferred option!
Broth: Using chicken broth adds richness. If you are vegetarian, vegetable broth is a great substitute. Alternatively, use water and add an extra pinch of seasoning to boost flavor.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds brightness and color. If you don’t have any, consider using fresh chives or even a sprinkle of green onions for a similar effect.
How Do I Get Fluffy Rice Every Time?
A common struggle is making sure the rice turns out fluffy and not sticky. Here are tips to get it right:
- Rinse the rice under cold water completely until it runs clear. This removes excess starch that can cause stickiness.
- After adding the water or broth, make sure to bring it to a rapid boil before reducing the heat—this helps achieve a good simmer.
- Avoid lifting the lid while the rice cooks. Keeping the steam trapped ensures the rice cooks evenly.
- When done, let the rice sit covered after cooking for about 5 minutes. This helps it firm up a bit and the moisture redistributes.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked, fluffy garlic butter rice every time! Enjoy! 😊
Easy Savory Garlic Butter Rice
Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (such as jasmine or basmati)
- 2 cups water or chicken broth (for extra flavor)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious garlic butter rice will take about 25-30 minutes in total. You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation and roughly 15-18 minutes for the rice to cook. After that, a few minutes to let it steam. Easy-peasy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse the Rice:
First, pour the rice into a strainer and rinse it under cold water. Keep rinsing until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch so your rice turns out fluffy. Once done, let it drain well.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a medium pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted and bubbly, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant, but be careful not to let it brown—you want that lovely garlic flavor without bitterness!
3. Toast the Rice:
Now, it’s time to add the rinsed rice into the pot. Stir it around so each grain gets coated in the garlic butter. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently. This adds a nice toasted flavor to the rice.
4. Cook the Rice:
Pour in the 2 cups of water or chicken broth, and sprinkle in a pinch of salt. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Let it simmer for about 15-18 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Don’t lift that lid! Steam is your friend.
5. Steam and Add Flavor:
Once the rice is done cooking, remove the pot from heat but keep it covered for another 5 minutes. This steaming step helps make the rice even fluffier. After that, stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to give it an extra rich flavor.
6. Season and Serve:
Season your rice with freshly ground black pepper to taste. Gently fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy this delightful side dish!
Enjoy your savory garlic butter rice as a perfect companion to your favorite meals! 😊
FAQ for Easy Savory Garlic Butter Rice
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice! Just keep in mind that it will take longer to cook—about 40-45 minutes. You’ll also need a little more liquid, approximately 2 1/4 cups instead of 2 cups, as brown rice requires more water to soften.
Can I make this recipe vegan-friendly?
Absolutely! To make this recipe vegan, substitute the unsalted butter with vegan butter or olive oil. You can also ensure that you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for added flavor.
How should I store leftover rice?
Store any leftover garlic butter rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out.
Can I add other ingredients to this rice?
Yes! This rice can be adapted to your taste. Add vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers while cooking the rice. You can also stir in cooked proteins like chicken or shrimp to make it a complete meal.
Feel free to ask if you have more questions!
