This Easy Savory Garlic Butter Rice is a simple dish bursting with flavor! With just rice, garlic, and butter, it comes together quickly and is perfect for any meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: Long-grain rice like jasmine or basmati brings great texture. If you’re out of these, you can use medium-grain rice or even brown rice, though adjust the cooking time for brown rice as it takes longer.
Butter: Unsalted butter is the go-to for this recipe to control saltiness. You can use salted butter or a vegan alternative like olive oil or vegan butter if you prefer a plant-based option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can work in a pinch, but use less as it’s stronger. About 1/4 teaspoon should be enough.
Broth or Water: Chicken broth adds a depth of flavor, but vegetable broth or water works just as well if you need a vegetarian option.
How Can I Get Fluffy Rice Every Time?
Getting fluffy rice is all about the cooking technique. Rinsing the rice removes excess starch, preventing it from becoming gummy. Here’s how to ensure perfect results:
- Rinse the rice until the water runs clear to help achieve that fluffiness.
- Don’t skip the sautéing step — coating the rice in butter and garlic before adding the liquid enhances the flavor and texture.
- Once you add the water or broth, keep the pot covered during cooking. This locks in steam and helps the rice cook evenly.
- Letting the rice sit covered after cooking allows it to finish steaming, which is key to getting that perfect fluffy texture.
Easy Savory Garlic Butter Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (such as jasmine or basmati)
- 2 cups water or chicken broth (for more flavor)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking, making it a quick and easy dish that can be on your table in about 30 minutes! Perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse the Rice:
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps to remove excess starch, which keeps your rice from being gummy. Once rinsed, drain the rice well.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, just until it’s fragrant but be careful not to let it brown, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
3. Toast the Rice:
Add the drained, rinsed rice to the saucepan and stir it around for about 1 minute. This will coat the rice in the garlic butter mixture and help it absorb more flavor.
4. Add Liquids:
Pour in the water or chicken broth, then season with salt and pepper. Stir it all together briefly to combine the ingredients.
5. Cook the Rice:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan and let the rice simmer for about 15 minutes. It should absorb all the liquid and become tender during this time.
6. Rest and Fluff:
Once the cooking time is finished, remove the saucepan from heat but leave it covered. Let it sit for an additional 5 minutes. After resting, fluff the rice with a fork, which will help separate the grains.
7. Finish with Butter and Garnish:
Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter for added richness and flavor. If you like, sprinkle in some freshly chopped parsley and an extra dash of black pepper for a pop of color and taste.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm garlic butter rice as a delicious side dish to your favorite entrees. It’s perfect next to grilled chicken, stir-fried vegetables, or even as part of a rice bowl. Enjoy!
This recipe yields fluffy, buttery, and aromatic rice with a savory garlic punch, making it a perfect pairing for a variety of main dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time. Typically, brown rice needs about 40-45 minutes to cook, so adjust the simmering time accordingly and add about 1/2 cup more water or broth for better moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Garlic?
If you don’t have garlic on hand or prefer not to use it, you can substitute it with garlic powder. Use about 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, adding it in with the broth to give your rice that flavorful kick.
How Do I Store Leftover Garlic Butter Rice?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.
What Pairing Suggestions Do You Recommend?
This garlic butter rice pairs beautifully with grilled or roasted meats, like chicken or steak. It’s also excellent alongside stir-fried vegetables or served as a bed for curry dishes, helping to soak up all those delicious flavors!
