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Onion Butter Rice

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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