Costa Rican White Rice
Experience the simplicity and authentic flavors of Costa Rican cuisine with this perfectly fluffy Costa Rican White Rice recipe. Made with long-grain white rice, aromatic garlic, and sautéed onions, this staple dish is the foundation of many traditional meals. The rice is gently toasted before simmering, enhancing its nutty flavor and light, tender texture. A quick rinse ensures the grains stay separate and non-sticky, while a precise combination of water and salt guarantees beautifully seasoned results. Ready in just 25 minutes, this versatile side pairs effortlessly with classic Costa Rican dishes like black beans, sweet plantains, or hearty stews. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when bringing authentic Central American charm to your table, this recipe is as delicious as it is easy to prepare!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 0.25 cup white onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Rinse the rice in a fine mesh sieve under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps to remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
In a medium-sized pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft and translucent.
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Stir in the rice and toast it in the pot for 1-2 minutes, ensuring each grain is coated in the oil mixture.
Add the water and salt to the pot, stirring to combine. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
Once the water reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for 15 minutes. Do not remove the lid during this time.
After 15 minutes, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam fully.
Fluff the rice with a fork and serve warm as a side dish to your favorite Costa Rican meals, such as beans, plantains, or stews.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
396 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 13.7 g | 18% | |
| Saturated Fat | 2.0 g | 10% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 8.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2379 mg | 103% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 61.8 g | 22% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.6 g | 6% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.8 g | ||
| Protein | 6.2 g | 12% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 68 mg | 5% | |
| Iron | 2.6 mg | 14% | |
| Potassium | 149 mg | 3% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
