French Onion Butter Rice Recipe

Introduction

French Onion Butter Rice is a comforting side dish that combines the rich sweetness of caramelized onions with fragrant thyme and buttery rice. It’s an easy way to elevate simple rice into a flavorful accompaniment for any meal.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain rice (basmati preferred)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 medium yellow onions, sliced
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until golden brown and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
2. Step 2: Add the rice to the skillet and toast it for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to coat the grains evenly with butter and onions.
3. Step 3: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the fresh thyme leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
4. Step 4: Remove the skillet from heat but keep it covered for an additional 5 minutes. Then stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter until melted and well combined.
5. Step 5: Fluff the rice with a fork, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot as a delicious side dish.

Tips & Variations

• For a deeper flavor, try adding a splash of dry white wine when adding the broth.
• Use beef broth instead of vegetable broth for a richer taste that complements the caramelized onions.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or additional thyme for a fresh herbal note.

Storage

Store leftover French Onion Butter Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe?

Yes, long-grain rice like basmati works best for a fluffy texture, but you can also use jasmine rice. Avoid short-grain rice, which may become too sticky.

How do I prevent the onions from burning while caramelizing?

Cook the onions over medium heat and stir occasionally. If they start to stick or brown too quickly, lower the heat slightly and add a bit of water to prevent burning.

French Onion Butter Rice Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 73 reviews

A rich and flavorful French Onion Butter Rice recipe featuring caramelized onions, buttery aroma, and fresh thyme, cooked to perfection with basmati rice in vegetable broth for a comforting and savory dish.

• Author: Grace
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: French
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Rice and Broth

• 1 cup long-grain rice (basmati preferred)
• 2 cups vegetable broth

Butter and Onions

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 medium yellow onions, sliced

Seasonings

• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Caramelize the onions: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté them slowly for 15-20 minutes until they become golden brown and caramelized, stirring occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
2. Toast the rice: Add the rice directly into the skillet with the caramelized onions and toast it for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until the rice becomes fragrant, enhancing its nutty flavor.
3. Cook the rice: Pour in the vegetable broth along with the fresh thyme leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice has absorbed all the liquid and is tender.
4. Rest and finish: Remove the skillet from heat but keep it covered. Let the rice rest for an additional 5 minutes to allow steam to complete the cooking process.
5. Add finishing butter and season: Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter until melted and evenly distributed throughout the rice. Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt and pepper to taste before serving hot.

Notes

• For best texture, use basmati rice as it remains fluffy and separate when cooked.
• Caramelizing the onions slowly is key to developing deep flavor; do not rush this step.
• Vegetable broth can be substituted with chicken broth for a non-vegetarian version.
• You can garnish with additional fresh thyme or chopped parsley for extra color and flavor.
• Ensure the skillet is well covered during simmering to prevent moisture loss and ensure even cooking.

Keywords: French onion rice, caramelized onion rice, butter rice, basmati rice recipe, savory rice side dish