Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water or broth
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Optional Aromatics
- 1 clove minced garlic (optional)
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
Instructions
- Measure and Rinse the Rice: Measure 1 cup of long-grain white rice and rinse it well under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
- Melt Butter and Toast Rice: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice and optionally minced garlic, then gently toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, to coat the grains and enhance flavor.
- Add Liquid and Season: Pour in 2 cups of water or broth along with 1/2 teaspoon salt and optional bay leaf. Stir once to combine, then bring to a simmer over medium-high heat.
- Cover and Simmer: Reduce the heat to the lowest setting, cover the saucepan tightly with a lid, and let the rice simmer undisturbed for about 15 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid to trap steam.
- Let Rice Rest and Fluff: Remove the saucepan from heat but keep it covered for an additional 5-10 minutes. Finally, uncover and gently fluff the rice with a fork to separate grains and release steam for a light, fluffy texture.
Notes
- Rinse rice thoroughly until water runs clear to prevent stickiness.
- Use high-quality, fresh unsalted butter for best flavor.
- Ensure the pot has a tight-fitting lid to trap steam effectively.
- Allow the rice to rest after cooking for moisture redistribution and fluffiness.
- Fluff rice gently with a fork instead of a spoon to avoid mashing the grains.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Universal
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe (about 1 cup)
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
Keywords: butter rice, fluffy rice, easy side dish, simple rice recipe, buttery rice, quick rice recipe, gluten free side