Butter French Onion Rice is a delightful twist on the classic French onion soup, transforming the comforting flavors into a creamy, savory rice dish. This recipe encapsulates the essence of French cuisine, where onions are slowly caramelized to bring out their natural sweetness, then combined with rich, buttery rice to create an unforgettable side or main dish.
Ingredients
Scale:
1 cup long-grain rice (such as Basmati or Jasmine)
2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth or chicken broth
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup onions, thinly sliced (about 2 medium onions)
1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
1/4 cup grated Gruyère cheese (optional)
Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and caramelized.
Once the onions are caramelized, add the fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Pour in the uncooked rice and stir, allowing it to absorb the flavors from the onions. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the rice is lightly toasted.
Add the vegetable or chicken broth to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.
Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from heat. If desired, stir in the heavy cream for extra creaminess.
Mix in the remaining 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, allowing it to melt and create a rich, buttery finish.
Garnish with grated Gruyère cheese if using, and sprinkle freshly chopped chives or parsley on top for added color and flavor. Serve hot as a side dish or enjoy it as a main dish.
