Garlic Butter Rice with Savory Flavors (Print version)

Fluffy garlic butter rice cooked with broth, onion, fresh garlic, and herbs for a rich, savory side dish.

# Ingredients:

For the rice

01 - 1 1/2 cups (285 g) long-grain white rice or jasmine rice, rinsed and well drained
02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 - 1/3 cup (50 g) finely diced yellow onion
04 - 5 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 2 1/2 cups (590 ml) low-sodium vegetable broth
06 - 1 bay leaf
07 - 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
08 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

To finish

09 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
10 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
11 - 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice, optional

# Instructions:

01 - Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh sieve under cool water until the water runs mostly clear. Drain well so the extra water does not throw off the cooking ratio.
02 - Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until softened and translucent.
03 - Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Do not let the garlic brown.
04 - Stir in the drained rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the grains are coated in garlic butter and look slightly glossy.
05 - Add the vegetable broth, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, cover tightly, reduce the heat to low, and cook for 15-18 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.
06 - Remove the pan from the heat and let it stand covered for 10 minutes. Discard the bay leaf, fluff with a fork, then fold in the remaining butter, parsley, and lemon juice if using.

# Good to know:

01 - Use low-sodium broth so you can control the final seasoning.
02 - Best served warm after the 10-minute rest.
03 - Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.