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Garlic butter rice is pure comfort food and transforms plain grains into a buttery, garlicky side dish that dresses up even simple weeknight meals. It is quick to make and packs tons of flavor with just a handful of ingredients.
I discovered this recipe when trying to stretch leftover rice one winter night and it instantly became a staple for easy dinners and potlucks. I made this on a whim while hosting last-minute guests and everyone asked for seconds and the recipe.
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: For that rich buttery base use real butter for the best flavor
- Long grain white rice: Ensures tender fluffy results look for grains that are white and unbroken
- Water: Ensures the rice cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors filtered if possible
- Chicken better than bouillon base: Adds a savory backbone try to find the reduced sodium version for more control
- Fresh garlic cloves, minced: For punchy aroma and taste always choose firm plump cloves
Instructions
- Melt the Butter:
- Add the unsalted butter to a large skillet and allow it to melt fully over medium heat. You want it foamy but not browned so watch closely.
- Toast the Rice:
- Add the rice right into the melted butter and stir it gently for about two minutes until it turns a light golden color and smells nutty. This brings out the best texture and prevents sogginess.
- Dissolve Bouillon:
- Pour in the water and spoon in the bouillon base. Stir thoroughly so the bouillon dissolves and mixes into the liquid before any other ingredients go in. This makes every bite flavorful.
- Add Garlic:
- Scatter in the minced garlic and gently stir to coat every grain and distribute that wonderful aroma.
- Simmer and Steam:
- Cover the skillet tightly and turn the heat to low once the mixture begins to boil. Let it cook undisturbed for fifteen to twenty minutes. The rice should be just tender and any extra liquid absorbed.
- Fluff and Serve:
- Lift the lid give everything a big stir and fluff with a fork so the grains separate. Serve up while piping hot.
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Garlic is my favorite part of this dish. The way it infuses every grain reminds me of my childhood when my grandmother would always add extra garlic to anything she cooked. This rice is now a favorite in my own family for the same reason.
Storage Tips
Let leftover garlic butter rice cool completely before storing in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat just sprinkle with a little water and cover loosely before microwaving so it stays fluffy.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap the chicken bouillon for veggie bouillon base to make this dish vegetarian. If you only have salted butter omit extra salt elsewhere. Try adding a handful of chopped herbs like parsley or chives to brighten up the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve garlic butter rice alongside roast chicken grilled fish sautéed vegetables or spicy stews. It also works as a quick base for homemade rice bowls or even tucked into burritos.
Cultural or Historical Context
Rice cooked with aromatics like garlic and butter is a beloved comfort across many cultures. Versions of garlic rice can be found in Mediterranean Middle Eastern and Filipino cooking always bringing richness to simple grains.
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This dish is buttery, aromatic, and wonderfully flexible. You will want to make it again and again for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of rice should I use?
Long-grain white rice is best for achieving fluffy, tender grains that hold their shape and absorb flavors well.
- → Can I substitute chicken base with something else?
Vegetable bouillon or broth can replace chicken base for a vegetarian option, adjusting salt to taste.
- → How do I prevent the rice from sticking?
Stir the rice in butter until lightly golden, then simmer covered on low and avoid constant stirring.
- → How strong is the garlic flavor?
The garlic flavor is prominent but balanced by the creamy butter and savory broth, creating a mellow profile.
- → Is this side dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it reheats well in the microwave or stove. Add a splash of water and cover to maintain moisture.