Description
French Onion Butter Rice is a comforting and flavorful side dish featuring caramelized onions, butter, and aromatic herbs slowly simmered with long-grain white rice. This recipe elevates simple rice by infusing it with rich, savory flavors inspired by classic French onion soup, making it a perfect accompaniment to a variety of main courses.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice and Broth
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Aromatics and Flavorings
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes until the onions are deeply golden brown and caramelized. This slow cooking process develops the sweet, rich flavor that forms the base of the dish.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned, enhancing the aroma of the dish.
- Toast the Rice: Add the long-grain white rice to the skillet with the onions and garlic, stirring to coat the grains. Cook for 2-3 minutes to lightly toast the rice, which improves its texture and flavor.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the beef or vegetable broth, soy sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Simmer the Rice: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and simmer gently for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been fully absorbed.
- Rest and Fluff: Remove the skillet from heat and let the rice sit covered for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to finish steaming. Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the rice if desired for a fresh, herby finish. Serve warm as a flavorful side dish.
Notes
- Use beef broth for a richer, more traditional flavor or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- To make this dish vegan, substitute butter with a plant-based margarine and use vegetable broth.
- Cooking the onions slowly is crucial to develop the deep caramelized flavor that defines this recipe.
- If soy sauce is unavailable, a splash of Worcestershire sauce or salt can be used, but soy sauce adds umami complexity.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French-inspired
