Onion Butter Rice

Introduction

Onion Butter Rice is a simple yet flavorful side dish that elevates plain rice with caramelized onions and rich butter. It’s perfect for pairing with a variety of mains and adds a comforting touch to 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.
2. Step 2: Add the rice to the skillet and toast it for 2-3 minutes until it becomes fragrant and slightly translucent.
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, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the liquid is fully absorbed.
4. Step 4: Remove the skillet from heat but keep it covered for an additional 5 minutes. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter until melted and evenly combined.
5. Step 5: Fluff the rice with a fork, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

• For extra richness, try adding a splash of cream or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
• Swap out thyme for rosemary or sage for a different herbal note.
• Use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth for a heartier flavor if you’re not vegetarian.
• Make sure to caramelize the onions slowly over medium heat to develop maximum sweetness and depth.

Storage

Store leftover 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 water or broth to restore moisture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use another type of rice?

Yes, you can use other long-grain varieties, but cooking times may vary. Adjust the liquid and simmering time according to the rice package instructions.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rice a day ahead and reheat it before serving. Adding a little extra butter or broth while reheating helps keep it moist.

Onion Butter Rice

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 227 reviews

Onion Butter Rice is a flavorful and aromatic side dish featuring caramelized onions sautéed in butter, combined with fragrant long-grain rice and fresh thyme. This recipe results in a tender, buttery rice infused with sweetness from the onions and depth from the broth and herbs. Perfect as a comforting side to a variety of meals.

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

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main 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. Caramelize the Onions: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the sliced yellow onions and sauté, stirring occasionally, until they become golden brown and caramelized, which should take about 15-20 minutes. This step develops the sweet and rich flavor base for the dish.
2. Toast the Rice: Add the long-grain rice to the skillet with the caramelized onions. Stir and toast the rice for 2-3 minutes until it becomes fragrant, enhancing the rice’s nutty flavor.
3. Cook the Rice: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the fresh thyme leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender.
4. Rest and Finish: Remove the skillet from heat but keep it covered for an additional 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam and become fluffy. Then stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter until melted and well combined.
5. Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork to separate grains, season with salt and pepper to your taste, and serve hot as a delicious and aromatic side dish.

Notes

• Using basmati rice enhances the aroma and texture but any long-grain rice will work.
• Caramelizing onions slowly is key to achieving that deep, sweet flavor – do not rush this step.
• For a richer flavor, you can substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth if not vegetarian.
• Adding fresh thyme provides a subtle herbal note, but you can substitute with dried thyme if needed, using about 1 teaspoon.
• Adjust butter amount or use olive oil for a lighter version.

Keywords: Onion Butter Rice, caramelized onion rice, side dish rice recipe, vegetarian rice, buttery rice, thyme rice