Simple Brazilian Rice: A Staple with Flair
Brazilian rice is a staple that often goes unnoticed amidst the more flamboyant dishes on the table, yet its simplicity and comforting texture make it a favorite in households across Brazil. Today, I’m excited to share a straightforward recipe for Brazilian rice that you can easily incorporate into your weekly meal rotation.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup jasmine rice, washed
- 2 cups water
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the Water:
- Start by bringing the water to a boil in a tea kettle. This step ensures that you can add hot water directly to the rice without lowering the cooking temperature.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat the vegetable. oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these until they are translucent and fragrant, but be vigilant to prevent any burning.
- Cook the Rice:
- Add the washed jasmine rice to the pot. Stir occasionally, allowing the rice to fry slightly. You’ll notice the rice starting to clump together slightly, which is a good sign that it’s being toasted nicely.
- Add Water and Simmer:
- Carefully pour the boiling water over the sautéed rice and aromatics. Add a pinch of salt, then cover the pot and reduce the heat to the lowest setting. Let the rice cook undisturbed for about 20 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed and holes start to form on the surface of the rice.
- Rest and Serve:
- Once the rice is cooked, turn off the heat. Crack the lid open slightly to allow some steam to escape, and let the rice sit for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps the rice to set and become fluffier.
- Fluff the rice with a fork before serving to ensure it’s perfectly light and fluffy.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 210 kcal per serving
- Servings: 4
Total Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
This simple Brazilian rice is wonderfully versatile, pairing beautifully with everything from grilled meats to vegetable stews. Its delicate flavor, enhanced by the garlic and onion, makes it an excellent base for any meal. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this rice will surely be a comforting and satisfying addition to your table. Enjoy the ease and pleasure of this humble yet essential dish!
Simple Brazilian Rice
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
Brazilian Rice, or Arroz Branco, is a staple in any Brazilian household, celebrated for its simplicity and ability to accompany a wide range of dishes. This recipe captures the essential flavors of Brazil, using minimal ingredients to produce a fluffy, aromatic side that pairs well with everything from meats to vegetables.
Not just a base for other meals, this Brazilian Rice stands alone with its delightful texture and garlic-infused aroma. It’s a testament to the beauty of simple cooking, transforming everyday ingredients into something special. Whether it’s part of a festive meal or a humble dinner at home, this rice is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 cup jasmine rice, washed
2 cups water
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
Pinch of salt
Instructions
Bring water to a boil in a tea kettle.
In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until translucent, being careful not to burn.
Add washed rice and stir occasionally, cooking until it starts forming clumps.
Pour boiling water over the rice, add salt, cover, and reduce heat to the lowest setting.
Cook for 20 minutes, or until all water is absorbed (look for holes forming on the surface of the rice).
Turn off the heat, slightly lift the lid, and let sit for 5 more minutes.
Fluff the rice with a fork and serve.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 210 kcal