Easy Brown Rice Side Dish
Elevate your dinner table with this Easy Brown Rice Side Dish, a wholesome and flavorful accompaniment that pairs beautifully with almost any main course. Made with nutty brown rice simmered in a blend of water and low-sodium broth, this recipe boasts a savory depth of flavor thanks to sautéed onions, garlic, and a hint of olive oil. Toasting the rice enhances its natural earthiness, while simple seasoning with salt and black pepper allows the ingredients to shine. Ready in under an hour with minimal hands-on effort, this healthy side dish is perfect for busy weeknight meals or meal prep. Top it off with fresh parsley for a pop of color and herbaceous finish, and enjoy a dish that's as nutritious as it is satisfying.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup brown rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 0.5 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.5 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Rinse the brown rice under cold water to remove excess starch.
In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent.
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Stir in the rinsed brown rice and toast for 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors of the onion and garlic.
Pour in the water and chicken or vegetable broth, then add the salt and black pepper. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover with a tight-fitting lid.
Simmer the rice for 35-40 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Avoid uncovering the saucepan during cooking to retain steam.
Once cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired. Serve warm.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
407 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 16.2 g | 21% | |
| Saturated Fat | 2.6 g | 13% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1280 mg | 56% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 58.4 g | 21% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.7 g | 20% | |
| Total Sugars | 5.1 g | ||
| Protein | 7.3 g | 15% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 94 mg | 7% | |
| Iron | 1.6 mg | 9% | |
| Potassium | 313 mg | 7% | |
*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.
