Print

French Onion Butter Rice Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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