French Onion Butter Rice Recipe

Introduction

French Onion Butter Rice is a comforting side dish that combines rich caramelized onions with fragrant herbs and tender rice. This simple recipe elevates plain rice into something special with buttery depth and savory flavors.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onions are golden brown and caramelized, about 15 minutes.
2. Step 2: Add the rice to the saucepan with the onions and stir to coat the grains in butter. Cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly toasted.
3. Step 3: Pour in the beef broth, garlic powder, and thyme. Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
4. Step 4: Remove from heat and fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in Parmesan cheese if desired. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
5. Step 5: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of beef or chicken broth.
• Try adding a splash of white wine when simmering for extra depth of flavor.
• Use sweet or Vidalia onions for a milder, sweeter taste.
• Top with toasted nuts like pine nuts or walnuts for added texture.

Storage

Store any leftover French Onion Butter Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but keep in mind brown rice takes longer to cook. Adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly, usually about 40-45 minutes with extra broth.

What can I do if my onions burn while caramelizing?

If the onions start to burn, reduce the heat and add a little water or broth to loosen them up. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking and avoid burning.

French Onion Butter Rice Recipe

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French Onion Butter Rice is a comforting and flavorful side dish featuring tender long-grain white rice cooked with caramelized onions, fragrant thyme, and savory beef broth. Finished with butter and optional Parmesan cheese, this recipe combines the rich, sweet flavor of caramelized onions with the creaminess of buttered rice, making it a perfect accompaniment to a variety of main courses.

• Author: Lila
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: French-inspired
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

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Rice and Broth

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)

Onions and Seasonings

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Finishing Touches

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Caramelize the Onions: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions along with a pinch of salt, and cook while stirring frequently until the onions soften and turn a deep golden brown, about 15 minutes. This process brings out a rich, sweet flavor in the onions.
2. Toast the Rice: Add the long-grain white rice to the saucepan with the caramelized onions. Stir well to coat each grain in butter and onion flavors. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the rice to toast slightly and enhance its nuttiness.
3. Simmer: Pour in the beef broth along with garlic powder and dried thyme. Stir the mixture to combine, then bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 18 to 20 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.
4. Finish & Serve: Remove the saucepan from heat and fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese if using, and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper to your taste.
5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness, then serve the French Onion Butter Rice warm alongside your favorite entrées.

Notes

• You can substitute chicken broth for beef broth to make a lighter, less intense flavor.
• Using unsalted butter allows you to control the salt content more precisely.
• Make sure to cook the onions slowly to avoid burning and to achieve proper caramelization.
• Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a delicious savory depth if included.
• This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or roasted vegetables.

Keywords: French Onion Butter Rice, caramelized onion rice, buttery rice side dish, easy rice recipe, French-inspired side, rice with Parmesan, savory rice dish