Butter Rice

Butter rice has been my comfort food since childhood so every time I catch that warm buttery aroma in the kitchen it instantly brings back memories of cozy family dinners and simple joys. I remember helping my mom stir the pot while she let me sprinkle just a little salt and pepper and those moments made me feel like a chef in my own little world.

Now I make this buttery dish whenever I want something quick easy and crowd-pleasing so it’s become my go-to side for almost any main course. Whether I’m serving grilled chicken or a veggie stir-fry this fluffy golden butter rice always completes the plate and its gentle flavor makes it versatile enough to pair with anything.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Long-grain rice – The fluffy base that absorbs all the delicious flavors.
• Butter – The star ingredient that adds richness and a silky texture.
• Onion – Adds subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Garlic – Gives the rice a warm aromatic base.
• Salt – Enhances all the other flavors.
• Black pepper – Adds a mild kick and rounds everything out.
• Water or broth – Helps the rice cook evenly and infuses flavor.

Tools You’ll Need

• Medium Saucepan – I use this to sauté and simmer everything in one pot.
• Wooden Spoon – Great for stirring the rice without damaging the grains.
• Measuring Cups – Helps me get the right ratio of rice to water.
• Knife and Cutting Board – For finely chopping the onion and garlic.
• Fork – To fluff the rice before serving and keep it light and airy.

Instructions

Step 1: Rinse the Rice

I start by rinsing the rice under cold water until it runs clear so this step helps remove extra starch and keeps the rice fluffy.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a medium saucepan I melt the butter over medium heat then I add the chopped onion and garlic and cook until they’re soft and fragrant about 3 to 4 minutes.

Step 3: Toast the Rice

I stir in the rinsed rice and cook it for 2 to 3 minutes so each grain gets lightly toasted and coated in the buttery mixture.

Step 4: Add Liquid and Season

I pour in the water or broth then add salt and pepper and bring everything to a gentle boil.

Step 5: Simmer and Cook

Once boiling I reduce the heat to low cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15 to 18 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 6: Fluff and Serve

I remove the pot from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes then I fluff the rice with a fork and it’s ready to serve!

Tips

If I want to give it extra richness I sometimes add an extra pat of butter before fluffing. You can also substitute half the water with chicken or vegetable broth for more flavor. And if you like a bit of a kick a pinch of paprika or chili flakes can do wonders.

Ways to Serve

This butter rice pairs beautifully with roasted meats grilled vegetables or creamy sauces. I often serve it under stews or alongside spicy curries and it’s also a great side for baked salmon or even stuffed bell peppers. You can even turn it into a base for rice bowls!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Butter Rice ahead of time?

Yes! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat with a splash of water to keep it moist.

What type of rice works best for Butter Rice?

I prefer long-grain white rice like basmati or jasmine but you can also use medium-grain if that’s what you have on hand.

Can I make this Butter Rice vegan?

Absolutely! Just use a plant-based butter and vegetable broth instead of dairy and chicken broth.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this butter rice a try! It’s a simple dish that brings so much warmth to the table and I’d love to hear how you serve it up. Don’t forget to save this recipe so it’s always within reach when you need a delicious and easy side.

Happy Cooking!

Print