Description
French Onion Butter Rice is a flavorful and comforting side dish that combines caramelized onions, fragrant garlic, and tender long-grain rice cooked in savory broth with butter and a touch of soy sauce. This easy skillet recipe elevates simple rice with rich, aromatic flavors perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice and Broth
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Seasonings and Fats
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Caramelize Onions: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes until the onions are caramelized and golden brown, developing a rich, sweet flavor.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the caramelized onions and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Toast Rice: Stir in the long-grain white rice and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to lightly toast and absorb the butter and onion flavors, stirring frequently to coat evenly.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the beef or vegetable broth and soy sauce, then add dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer Rice: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet or saucepan, and let the rice simmer gently for 18-20 minutes until it is tender and the liquid has been fully absorbed.
- Rest Rice: Remove the pan from heat and keep it covered, allowing the rice to rest for 5 minutes. This helps the grains finish steaming and become fluffy.
- Fluff and Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm as a flavorful side dish.
Notes
- Use vegetable broth to make the dish vegetarian.
- Caramelizing the onions low and slow is key for deep flavor; don’t rush this step.
- Adjust salt and soy sauce according to taste and dietary needs.
- Fresh thyme can be used instead of dried for a brighter herb flavor.
- Garnish with parsley or chives for a fresh finish and color contrast.
