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How to Season White Rice Recipe

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3.9 from 2 reviews

A simple and flavorful recipe for seasoning long-grain white rice with aromatic ingredients like garlic, onion, and bay leaves, enhancing the rice with balanced savory notes. Perfect as a versatile side dish to complement various meals.

Ingredients

Seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon crushed garlic
  • 1 large bouillon cube
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • Pinch of black pepper

Rice

  • 2 and 1/2 cups water
  • 2 cups long-grain white rice

Instructions

  1. Prep the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a deep pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, crushed garlic, bouillon cube, and black pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the onions become fragrant, breaking up the bouillon cube with a wooden spoon to release its flavors.
  2. Add simmering liquid: Pour in 2 and 1/2 cups of water and toss in the bay leaves. Bring the water to a simmer, then taste and adjust salt as needed to ensure balanced seasoning.
  3. Prepare and add rice: Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold running water until water runs clear to remove excess starch. Drain well. Once the water in the pot is boiling, add the rice and stir to combine. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and reduce the heat to low.
  4. Cook rice: Let the rice cook undisturbed for 20 minutes; avoid lifting the lid or stirring during this time to prevent texture disruption. For softer rice, extend cooking time by an additional 5 minutes.
  5. Rest and serve: Turn off the heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 10 minutes. After resting, discard the bay leaves. Fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving to separate the grains and release steam.

Notes

  • Rinsing rice helps remove surface starch and prevents clumping for fluffy texture.
  • Do not lift the lid or stir during cooking to allow even steam cooking.
  • Adjust salt and seasoning according to taste after simmering the water.
  • Use a pot with a tight-fitting lid to retain moisture during cooking.
  • The bouillon cube adds depth and umami; substitute with vegetable or chicken broth if preferred.

Find it online: https://marthatasty.com/how-to-season-white-rice-recipe/