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Herby Garlic Rice

Herby Garlic Rice
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Herby Garlic Rice is a flavorful and easy-to-make side dish that combines fragrant garlic with a mix of fresh herbs. It offers a vibrant balance of taste, aroma, and color, making it perfect to accompany grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or vegetarian meals. Ready in about 30 minutes, this versatile recipe is customizable and sure to brighten any dinner with fresh, savory notes and a comforting texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Rice and Broth

  • 1 cup long-grain rice (such as basmati or jasmine)
  • 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth

Herbs and Aromatics

  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
  • 1/4 cup mixed fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, chives), chopped
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest or 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Cooking Fats and Seasoning

  • 1–2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Finely mince the garlic and chop the fresh herbs. Set them aside to keep fresh and ready for use.
  2. Sauté the Garlic: Heat olive oil or butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.
  3. Toast the Rice: Add the rinsed rice to the pan with the garlic. Stir well to coat each grain with the fragrant oil or butter. Toast the rice gently for 2 to 3 minutes until it feels a bit dry and slightly translucent on the edges.
  4. Add Broth and Cook: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  5. Stir in Herbs and Finish: Once cooked, fluff the rice gently with a fork. Immediately stir in the chopped fresh herbs and, if desired, a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest to brighten the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Notes

  • Always rinse rice to prevent clumping and ensure fluffy grains.
  • Add chopped herbs after cooking to preserve their bright flavor and vibrant color.
  • Use broth instead of water to enhance the flavor of the rice.
  • Cook garlic over medium heat and watch closely to avoid burning and bitterness.
  • Fluff rice gently with a fork rather than a spoon to keep grains intact.

Nutrition

Keywords: herby garlic rice, garlic rice, fresh herb rice, easy side dish, gluten free side, vegan rice, versatile side dish

Find it online: https://tastebudtrek.com/herby-garlic-rice/