Toasted Herb Rice
Toasted Herb Rice offers a nutty, flavorful side with aromatic herbs and green onions, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings seeking a comforting, savory dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Measure rice into an ovenproof casserole with a lid.
- Place the casserole into an oven set at 325°F.
- Roast for 20 minutes or until rice is toasted and golden.
- Remove from oven. Add butter to rice and stir until melted.
- Pour boiling broth and water over rice.
- Stir, cover, and return to oven to bake for 30 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in chopped green onions, soy sauce, and dried tarragon or basil leaves.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nuttier flavor, consider using jasmine or basmati rice instead of long grain. If you prefer a lighter option, swap the butter for olive oil. Fresh herbs can elevate the dish; try adding parsley or cilantro instead of dried tarragon or basil. To make it a complete meal, consider adding cooked chicken or shrimp after baking, which pairs beautifully with Easy Fried Chicken.
Serving Suggestions
To serve, fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with additional chopped green onions for freshness. This toasted herb rice is a versatile side that goes well with various dishes, such as grilled meats or a hearty salad. It complements American recipes like Baked Cubed Beef Casserole beautifully, or serve alongside roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the rice and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of broth for moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Toasted Herb Rice contains roughly 751 calories, with 33g protein, 129g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (188% of the Daily Value), calcium (89% of the Daily Value), and potassium (73% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2128mg per serving (93% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for this recipe?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it requires a longer cooking time. Adjust the liquid to about 2 cups of broth and 1 cup of water, and extend the baking time to 50-60 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
If you don't have chicken broth, vegetable broth is a great alternative for a vegetarian option. You can also use water with a bouillon cube dissolved in it for added flavor. This will still impart depth to the dish without compromising the overall taste.
Can I add vegetables to the rice?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or carrots can enhance the dish's flavor and nutrition. Stir in cooked or sautéed vegetables just before serving to keep them vibrant and fresh. This addition can also make it a more complete meal on its own.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).