Golden Onion Butter Jasmine Rice

A Flavorful and Aromatic Rice Dish

Golden Onion Butter Jasmine Rice is a rich, savory, and slightly sweet side dish that elevates any meal. The natural fragrance of jasmine rice is enhanced by caramelized onions and buttery goodness, creating a dish that is both simple and indulgent. This rice pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as a standalone comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor – The caramelized onions add sweetness and depth, while the butter makes the rice rich and silky.
• Easy to Make – Requires minimal ingredients and effort but delivers maximum flavor.
• Pairs Well with Everything – Works as a perfect side dish for meats, seafood, or vegetarian meals.
• Aromatic and Beautiful – The golden hue and enticing scent make it a showstopper.

Ingredients

• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 1 ¾ cups water or broth
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• ½ teaspoon sugar (optional, to aid caramelization)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

1. Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents clumping.
2. Drain the rice and set aside.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat and add olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter.
2. Add the thinly sliced onions and stir to coat in the fat.
3. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn a deep golden brown. If they start to stick, add a splash of water to deglaze the pan.
4. If using, sprinkle the sugar to speed up the caramelization process.
5. Once caramelized, remove half of the onions for garnishing later.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, water or broth, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Stir in the remaining caramelized onions.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Once cooked, remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the steam to distribute evenly.

Step 4: Finish with Butter and Serve

1. Fluff the rice gently with a fork and mix in the remaining tablespoon of butter for extra richness.
2. Transfer to a serving dish, top with reserved caramelized onions, and sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives.
3. Serve warm and enjoy!

Variations

• Make it Vegan: Use plant-based butter or omit it altogether for a lighter version.
• Add Protein: Stir in cooked shredded chicken, tofu, or chickpeas for a more filling dish.
• Use Different Onions: Try shallots for a milder sweetness or red onions for a deeper flavor.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a kick.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a microwave with a splash of water to prevent drying out, or heat in a skillet over low heat with a bit of butter or oil.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent my rice from getting mushy?

Rinsing the rice before cooking and using the correct water-to-rice ratio will help prevent mushy rice. Also, avoid stirring while it’s cooking.

Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and water ratio. Brown rice takes about 40-45 minutes and requires about 2 ¼ cups of water per cup of rice.

What type of onion works best for this recipe?

Yellow onions are the best choice because they caramelize beautifully and offer a balance of sweetness and savoriness.

Can I make this in a rice cooker?

Absolutely! Simply caramelize the onions separately, then add all ingredients to the rice cooker and cook as usual. Stir in the butter at the end.

How do I get the best caramelized onions?

Cook the onions low and slow, stirring occasionally, and avoid rushing the process. Adding a pinch of sugar helps speed up caramelization.

Can I use ghee instead of butter?

Yes! Ghee adds a rich, nutty flavor and works beautifully in this dish.

What can I serve with Golden Onion Butter Jasmine Rice?

It pairs well with grilled chicken, steak, roasted vegetables, seafood, or even a simple fried egg on top.

Can I freeze this rice?

Yes, let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free broth or stick with water, this dish is naturally gluten-free.

Can I add cheese to this recipe?

A sprinkle of Parmesan or crumbled feta can add a delicious twist!

Conclusion

Golden Onion Butter Jasmine Rice is an easy yet flavorful dish that transforms a simple grain into something special. With its rich, caramelized onions and buttery texture, this rice is perfect for complementing any meal or enjoying on its own. Try this recipe today and elevate your rice game!

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