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The ultimate comfort side dish, Stick of Butter Rice transforms simple ingredients into a rich, buttery masterpiece that rivals any restaurant rice pilaf. This baked rice dish marries the savory depth of French onion soup with tender, perfectly cooked rice and melted butter for an indulgent accompaniment to any meal.
After countless dinner parties, I've found this rice dish disappears faster than any other side. The way the butter slowly melts into each grain of rice during baking creates a texture and flavor that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Essential Ingredients Guide
- Long-grain White Rice: Choose high-quality jasmine or basmati rice for best results. Fresh rice is crucial - older rice can become dry and tough
- French Onion Soup: The condensed version provides concentrated flavor. Look for a rich, dark color in the can
- Beef Consommé: This concentrated broth adds remarkable depth. The darker the color, the richer the flavor
- Butter: Use unsalted butter to control saltiness. Quality matters here - choose European-style if possible
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Detailed Cooking Instructions
- Prepare Your Pan:
- Spray baking dish thoroughly, including corners and sides. Ensure even coating to prevent sticking. Use glass or ceramic for most even heating.
- Combine Base Ingredients:
- Pour rice first, spreading evenly. Add soups gradually while stirring. Ensure all rice is submerged in liquid.
- Butter Placement:
- Cut butter when cold for clean slices. Arrange in perfect 3x3 pattern. Space evenly for consistent melting.
- First Baking Phase:
- Cover tightly with foil. Seal edges well to trap steam. Place in center of oven.
- Final Baking Stage:
- Remove foil carefully away from you. Don't stir - let butter continue melting. Watch for golden edges.
You Must Know:
Growing up, my mother would make this rice for special occasions, and the aroma would fill our entire house. I've learned through trial and error that letting the dish rest after baking makes all the difference in texture. It's become my go-to when I need a foolproof side dish that feels special.
Perfect Temperature Control
The success of this dish largely depends on maintaining the right temperature throughout cooking.
Make-Ahead Magic
While this rice is incredible fresh from the oven, I've found ways to make it work for busy schedules. You can combine all ingredients except the butter in the baking dish and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, bring to room temperature for 30 minutes, add the butter pats, and proceed with baking. The results are just as magnificent.
Flavor Variations
Through years of making this recipe, I've experimented with several delicious variations. Sometimes I'll add finely minced garlic under the butter pats, or sprinkle fresh thyme leaves between them. For special occasions, I've even added sautéed mushrooms halfway through the uncovered baking time, which adds an elegant touch to this humble dish.
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Texture Perfection
The key to achieving that perfect, fluffy texture lies in how you handle the rice after baking. I always use a fork rather than a spoon for fluffing, gently lifting and separating the grains rather than stirring. This preserves the individual grain texture and prevents the rice from becoming mushy.
Serving Suggestions
This rice pairs beautifully with nearly any protein, but I find it particularly magnificent alongside a herb-roasted chicken or grilled steak. The rich, buttery flavor complements both light and heavy main dishes, making it incredibly versatile for any menu planning.
After countless times making this dish, I've come to appreciate how something so simple can be so extraordinary. The magic lies in how the butter slowly melts into the rice, creating pockets of rich flavor throughout. Whether you're serving it at a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this rice dish proves that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most satisfying. The combination of quality ingredients, proper technique, and patience transforms basic rice into something truly memorable.