When it comes to crafting the perfect meal, the sides can make all the difference. One versatile dish that shines in any culinary lineup is seasoned rice. A step up from plain white or brown rice, this flavorful alternative is infused with herbs, spices, and aromatics that elevate its taste, making it the perfect companion to a wide variety of main courses.
The secret to this dish lies in its perfectly balanced seasoning blend. For a rich and savory flavor, combine onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika as a base. Add a hint of thyme for earthy depth, and season with salt and black pepper for a classic touch. To give it a bit of heat, include a pinch of red pepper flakes. Finish it off with fresh or dried parsley for a pop of freshness and a touch of bouillon to bring it all together with an extra layer of umami. The result is a dish that’s aromatic, flavorful, and utterly satisfying. For even more richness, sauté the rice in a little butter or olive oil before cooking.
This dish pairs beautifully with hearty proteins like grilled chicken, pan-seared salmon, or roasted pork loin. For a Mediterranean twist, match your seasoned rice with lamb kebabs or a lemon-herb roasted chicken. If you’re in the mood for a tropical vibe, seasoned rice makes a fantastic base for jerk chicken or grilled shrimp. Vegetarian? No problem! It complements roasted vegetables, tofu stir-fries, or a hearty lentil stew just as well.
Seasoned rice isn’t just a side dish—it’s a canvas for creativity. Add chopped vegetables, nuts, or raisins for texture and sweetness, or mix in freshly squeezed lemon juice for a zesty kick. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a festive feast, this dish promises to be the unsung hero on your table.
With its rich flavors and endless customization options, seasoned rice is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Try it once, and you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Seasoned Rice
Ingredients
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups long grain white rice rinsed
- 1 tbsp dried parsley
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika regular or smoked, to preference
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- ¼ tsp dried thyme
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper
- 3¾ cups water see notes
- 2 tbsp Better than Bouillon Any flavour, see notes
Instructions
- In a medium to large pot, melt ¼ cup unsalted butter over medium high heat.
- Add 2 cups long grain white rice and stir until rice is coated with butter.
- Optional: Cook and stir rice for 3-5 minutes, until just starting to brown.
- Season rice with 1 tbsp dried parsley, 1 tbsp onion powder, 2 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp paprika, ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp ground black pepper, ¼ tsp dried thyme, and ¼ tsp crushed red pepper. Stir to coat rice.
- Add 3¾ cups water and 2 tbsp Better than Bouillon to the pot and stir. Cover.
- When the water just starts to bubble, remove lid and stir well to incorporate bouillon, then replace lid.
- Allow water to come to a boil then immediately reduce heat to just above low - the water should be at a slow to medium simmer. Lower heat is better than higher if you're unsure.
- Cook for approximately 15 minutes without removing lid or stirring. The top of the rice should appear dry with indentations or holes throughout (see notes). Turn off heat and allow to finish steam cooking for 5-10 minutes.
- Remove lid and stir. Serve immediately.
Notes
Nutrition
Authentic Recipes
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