Description
This French Onion Butter Rice is a flavorful and comforting dish featuring caramelized onions, butter-toasted rice, and aromatic herbs simmered in beef broth. Finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, it makes a perfect side or a light main meal with rich, savory notes reminiscent of the classic French onion soup.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice and Broth
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
Other Ingredients
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 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
- Caramelize the Onions: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions along with a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onions turn golden brown and caramelize, about 15 minutes.
- Toast the Rice: Add the long-grain white rice to the saucepan with the caramelized onions. Stir well to coat the rice grains with the butter and onions. Continue cooking for 2 to 3 minutes until the rice is slightly toasted.
- Simmer: Pour in the beef broth along with the garlic powder and dried thyme. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan and let it simmer gently for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been fully absorbed.
- Finish & Serve: Remove the saucepan from heat. Fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese if using. Season with additional salt and pepper to your liking.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the rice before serving. Serve the dish warm as a delicious side or light entrée.
Notes
- Using beef broth enhances the French onion flavor but chicken broth can be substituted for a lighter taste.
- Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a nice savory finish.
- Make sure to caramelize the onions slowly to develop their natural sweetness.
- For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of beef or chicken broth.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
