Golden Onion Butter Jasmine Rice is the kind of cozy, vibrant side dish that instantly steals the spotlight at the table. Each fluffy grain of jasmine rice is kissed with buttery richness, golden flecks of sweet onion, and a gentle glow from ground turmeric. Whether you serve it piled high beside a juicy roast or as a sunny bed for your favorite veggies, this recipe promises warm, savory comfort with every bite. You’ll want to make this just once to understand why it quickly becomes a weeknight staple and holiday favorite alike!
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes Golden Onion Butter Jasmine Rice so special is how simple yet purposeful each ingredient is. Only a handful of pantry staples come together for a dish that’s both beautifully fragrant and irresistibly rich. Here’s what you need and why you’ll love each component:
- Jasmine rice: Fluffy, aromatic, and tender, jasmine rice is essential for its soft texture and faintly floral fragrance.
- Unsalted butter: Butter brings luscious richness and helps create perfectly separated, glossy grains.
- Olive oil: The combo of butter and olive oil keeps the onions from browning too quickly, adding another layer of flavor.
- Yellow onion: Slowly cooked, finely diced onion turns sweet and golden, infusing the rice with color and deep, savory notes.
- Turmeric: Just a dash lends an earthy aroma and the lovely yellow tint that gives this dish its sunny name.
- Garlic powder: For that mellow, garlicky undertone without overpowering the delicate hints of jasmine.
- Salt: Draws out the flavors and brings everything into tasty harmony.
- Water or low-sodium chicken broth: Broth boosts savoriness, but water works for a gentler, more neutral base.
- Chopped parsley or green onions (optional): A sprinkle on top adds freshness, color, and just a little extra crunch.
How to Make Golden Onion Butter Jasmine Rice
Step 1: Sauté the Onion in Butter and Olive Oil
Start by melting the butter with olive oil together in a medium saucepan over medium heat. The olive oil ensures the butter won’t burn, and together, they create the dreamiest base for sweet golden onions. Toss in your diced onion and let it cook gently, stirring from time to time, until it’s deeply softened and golden brown—this takes about 6 to 8 minutes and is worth every second for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Add the Spices
Once your onions are gloriously golden, sprinkle in the turmeric, garlic powder, and salt. Stir everything around so the spices bloom in the hot fat, turning the onions a gorgeous yellow while releasing their full aroma.
Step 3: Toast the Jasmine Rice
Add your rinsed jasmine rice directly to the pan. Stir for 1 to 2 minutes, making sure every grain gets glossy and coated in buttery spices. Toasting the rice at this stage unlocks a subtle nutty note and keeps it extra fluffy.
Step 4: Add Liquid and Simmer
Pour in the water or broth and bring it to a gentle boil. As soon as it bubbles, reduce the heat all the way to low, cover, and let the Golden Onion Butter Jasmine Rice simmer undisturbed for 15 minutes. The steam will gently infuse every grain with flavor and golden color.
Step 5: Rest and Fluff
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, still covered, for another 5 minutes. This little nap lets the rice finish cooking in its own steam and helps prevent sticking. When time’s up, lift the lid, fluff the rice gently with a fork, and marvel at your golden masterpiece.
How to Serve Golden Onion Butter Jasmine Rice
Garnishes
A final sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or sliced green onions adds a beautiful burst of green that pops against the sunny rice. Not just for looks, these fresh garnishes also bring a lively flavor and hint of crunch to every bite of Golden Onion Butter Jasmine Rice.
Side Dishes
Pair this golden rice with almost anything—grilled chicken, roasted salmon, sauteed tofu, or even a hearty curry. Its buttery savoriness and gentle warmth make it a dream next to roasted vegetables, kebabs, or a simple green salad.
Creative Ways to Present
Mound your Golden Onion Butter Jasmine Rice in a shallow bowl and top with toasted nuts or edible flowers for a fancy twist. Or, spoon it into little ramekins and invert for a beautiful dome presentation at dinner parties. Even stuffed in bell peppers with a sprinkle of cheese, this rice steals the show!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftover Golden Onion Butter Jasmine Rice cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, it keeps wonderfully for up to 4 days—ready for quick lunches or easy dinners.
Freezing
This rice freezes fabulously! Scoop cooled portions into freezer bags or containers. Seal well and freeze for up to 2 months. To prevent freezer burn, try to squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing.
Reheating
To bring Golden Onion Butter Jasmine Rice back to its fluffy glory, add a spoonful of water and cover loosely before microwaving, or gently warm on the stove in a covered pan. Be sure not to overheat, so the grains stay separate and moist.
FAQs
Can I use brown jasmine rice instead of white?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind brown jasmine rice will need extra liquid and a longer cook time—typically about 35–40 minutes. The result is a nuttier, chewier take that still shines with golden onion flavor.
Is Golden Onion Butter Jasmine Rice gluten free?
Yes, this dish is naturally gluten free as long as your broth is also gluten free. Just double-check labels on packaged broth to be sure.
What can I add to make this a complete meal?
Try stirring in cooked peas, shredded rotisserie chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or a handful of baby spinach at the end for an all-in-one dinner. The rice is endlessly versatile and happy to support your favorite protein or veggies.
Can I make Golden Onion Butter Jasmine Rice vegan?
Definitely! Just swap the butter for a vegan alternative or use all olive oil. The dish still delivers fantastic flavor and that signature golden color.
Why do I need to let the rice rest before fluffing?
Resting allows the steam to redistribute, finishing the cooking process. This step ensures the grains stay separated, tender, and fluffy—never mushy or sticky.
Final Thoughts
Once you try Golden Onion Butter Jasmine Rice, you’ll see why it’s a kitchen favorite for both quick weeknight dinners and special gatherings. Its warmth, vibrant color, and gentle aroma are truly irresistible. Go ahead—stir up a pot and watch how quickly it disappears from your table!
Print
Golden Onion Butter Jasmine Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A fragrant and flavorful side dish, this Golden Onion Butter Jasmine Rice is a perfect accompaniment to any meal. The combination of buttery jasmine rice, golden onions, and aromatic spices creates a dish that is both comforting and delicious.
Ingredients
Jasmine Rice:
1 cup jasmine rice, rinsed
Butter Mixture:
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon olive oil
Onion Mixture:
1 medium yellow onion, finely diced, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt
Liquid:
1 3/4 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
Garnish:
Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Butter Onion Mixture: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter with the olive oil. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and golden brown.
- Add Spices and Rice: Stir in turmeric, garlic powder, and salt. Add the rinsed jasmine rice and toast, stirring to coat the grains.
- Cook the Rice: Pour in the water or broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until tender.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from heat, let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork, garnish, and serve.
Notes
- For richer flavor, use all broth instead of water.
- Add a pinch of cumin or a cinnamon stick for warmth.
- Great as a side for grilled chicken or roasted vegetables.
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