Savory Golden Onion Butter Jasmine Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and savory flavor – The caramelized onions and butter give the rice a deep, savory flavor that’s irresistible.
• Aromatic and fluffy – Jasmine rice is light, fragrant, and perfectly tender.
• Simple ingredients – Made with basic pantry ingredients, this rice is quick and easy to prepare.
• Perfect for pairing – Goes well with everything from steaks and chicken to curries and vegetables.
• Versatile – You can adjust the seasonings to fit any meal or preference.

Ingredients

• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 3/4 cups water or chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric (for golden color, optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Sauté the onions: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes, or until the onions are softened and caramelized. Stir frequently to avoid burning. If they start to stick, add a splash of water to deglaze the pan.
2. Add the rice and seasonings: Add the jasmine rice to the pan with the onions, and stir to combine. Add the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and turmeric (if using). Stir the rice and onions together for 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to lightly toast and absorb the flavors.
3. Cook the rice: Pour in the water or chicken broth, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid while cooking to ensure the rice steams properly.
4. Fluff and serve: Once the rice is cooked, remove the pan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains, and stir in any caramelized onions that may have stuck to the bottom of the pan.
5. Garnish and enjoy: Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: Stir in peas, carrots, or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
• Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for some heat.
• Herb variation: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil for extra flavor.
• Lemon zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest for a bright, fresh twist.
• Nuts and dried fruits: Toss in toasted almonds or cashews and some raisins or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness and crunch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep the rice moist. Stir occasionally while reheating.
• Freezing: This rice can be frozen for up to 3 months. Store in an airtight container or freezer bag and reheat thoroughly before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of rice?

Yes, you can use other types of rice, such as basmati or long-grain white rice, but keep in mind that the cooking time and water-to-rice ratio may differ.

2. Can I make this rice without butter?

Yes! You can substitute the butter with olive oil or another cooking oil if you prefer a dairy-free option.

3. Can I make this recipe with brown rice?

Yes! If using brown rice, you’ll need to increase the cooking time and add more water (about 2 1/2 cups of water per cup of rice). Follow the rice package instructions for best results.

4. Can I add garlic to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can sauté minced garlic with the onions for an extra layer of flavor.

5. How do I keep the rice from being mushy?

To prevent mushy rice, avoid stirring it too much while it cooks, and ensure you let it rest after cooking for 5 minutes. This allows the rice to firm up.

6. Can I make this rice ahead of time?

Yes, this rice reheats well and can be made ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when needed.

7. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes! You can use vegetable broth to keep the dish vegetarian or vegan.

8. Can I make this recipe with a rice cooker?

Yes! Add the rice, onions, butter, and seasonings to your rice cooker with the liquid, and cook as per the rice cooker instructions.

9. Can I add cheese to this rice?

Yes, you can stir in some shredded cheese, such as Parmesan or cheddar, for a cheesy variation.

10. How do I prevent the rice from sticking?

Use a non-stick saucepan or make sure you’re using enough liquid to cook the rice evenly. Stir the rice gently when combining the seasonings and liquid to prevent sticking.

Conclusion

Savory Golden Onion Butter Jasmine Rice is the perfect side dish for any meal, offering rich flavors and a buttery, aromatic texture. The caramelized onions add a savory sweetness, while the turmeric gives it a beautiful golden color and a touch of warmth. Whether you’re serving it with grilled meats, seafood, or vegetables, this rice will elevate your dish and become a favorite in your recipe collection. Give it a try for your next meal!

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