Garlic Butter Herb Rice

This Garlic Butter Herb Rice is fragrant, flavorful, and makes the perfect side dish to just about any meal. It’s fluffy, buttery, and packed with the freshness of herbs – ideal for pairing with chicken, beef, seafood, or roasted vegetables.

Ingredients

• 2 cups long-grain white rice (such as basmati or jasmine), rinsed

• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional for color)

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)

• Juice of ½ a lemon

Instructions

1. Prepare the rice:
   Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. This helps keep it fluffy.

2. Sauté aromatics:
   In a large saucepan or ceramic pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add garlic and onion, and sauté until softened and fragrant (about 3 minutes).

3. Toast the rice:
   Stir in the rice and cook for 2–3 minutes, letting the grains absorb the butter and develop a slightly nutty aroma.

4. Simmer:
   Pour in the broth, add salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

5. Fluff and finish:
   Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork, then stir in parsley, thyme, dill, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

6. Serve:
   Plate the rice warm as a delicious side dish or as a base for grilled meats, seafood, or roasted veggies.

Chef’s Tip:

For extra richness, stir in an additional tablespoon of butter just before serving.