Heavenly French Onion Butter Rice Recipe

Introduction

This Heavenly French Onion Butter Rice is a comforting, flavorful side dish that elevates simple rice with rich caramelized onions and fragrant thyme. Perfect for pairing with your favorite main course, it’s easy to make and satisfying to eat.

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. Step 1: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they are golden brown and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
2. Step 2: Add the rice to the skillet and toast it for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to coat the grains evenly with butter and onions.
3. Step 3: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the fresh thyme leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender.
4. Step 4: Remove the skillet from heat but keep it covered. Let it sit for an additional 5 minutes to finish steaming the rice.
5. Step 5: Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter until melted. Fluff the rice gently with a fork, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot for the best flavor.

Tips & Variations

• For extra depth, add a splash of white wine before adding the broth to deglaze the pan after toasting the rice.
• Swap vegetable broth for chicken broth if you prefer a richer flavor.
• Add a handful of grated Parmesan cheese after cooking for a creamy, cheesy twist.
• Use shallots instead of onions for a milder, sweeter taste.

Storage

Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to restore moisture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, you can substitute with other long-grain rice varieties, but cooking times and liquid amounts may need adjustment. Basmati works best for fluffy texture.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Use vegan butter or olive oil instead of unsalted butter to keep it plant-based without sacrificing flavor.

Heavenly French Onion Butter Rice Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 107 reviews

Heavenly French Onion Butter Rice is a flavorful, aromatic dish featuring caramelized onions, fragrant thyme, and rich butter-infused basmati rice. Perfect as a comforting side or a savory addition to any meal, this recipe combines the sweetness of slowly sautéed onions with the warmth of herbaceous broth, resulting in a dish that’s both simple and elegant.

• Author: Caleb
• 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: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Rice and Broth

• 1 cup long-grain rice (basmati preferred)
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Butter and Aromatics

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 medium yellow onions, sliced

Instructions

1. Caramelize the Onions: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté them slowly for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and are beautifully caramelized, bringing out their natural sweetness.
2. Toast the Rice: Add the rice directly to the skillet with the caramelized onions and toast it for 2-3 minutes. Stir frequently until the rice releases a fragrant, nutty aroma, ensuring each grain is coated with butter and onion flavor.
3. Add Broth and Thyme: Pour in the vegetable broth and sprinkle in the fresh thyme leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and allow the rice to simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed by the rice.
4. Rest and Finish with Butter: Remove the skillet from heat but keep it covered. Let it rest for an additional 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam and fully cook through. Then, stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter until it melts in, enriching the texture and flavor.
5. Fluff and Season: Use a fork to fluff the rice gently, separating the grains and mixing in the caramelized onions evenly. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper, and serve the rice hot alongside your favorite main dish.

Notes

• For best results, use long-grain basmati rice to achieve fluffy, separate grains.
• Caramelizing the onions low and slow develops a deep, sweet flavor that defines this dish.
• Vegetable broth can be substituted with chicken broth for extra richness if not vegetarian.
• This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or as a flavorful base for stir-fries.
• Leftover rice keeps well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheats nicely with a splash of broth or water to restore moisture.

Keywords: French onion rice, caramelized onion rice, butter rice, basmati rice recipe, vegetarian side dish, savory rice