Outback Steakhouse Seasoned Rice Recipe
The Outback Steakhouse Seasoned Rice Recipe is simple, warm and full of flavor. It tastes just like the famous restaurant side dish.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
Rinse the Rice
- Place the rice in a bowl and rinse under cold water. Swirl gently with your hand. Drain and repeat until the water runs clear. This removes extra starch. It helps the rice cook fluffy and separate.
Sauté the Onion and Garlic
- Heat olive oil and butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for two minutes. Stir until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Do not let the garlic burn.
Toast the Rice
- Add the rinsed rice into the saucepan. Stir well so it coats in butter and oil. Toast the rice for two to three minutes. This step gives a nutty flavor and improves texture.
Add Broth and Seasonings
- Pour in the chicken broth carefully. Add paprika, thyme, salt and black pepper. Stir gently to combine. Bring the mixture to a light boil. The spices will start releasing their aroma.
Simmer and Cook
- Once boiling, reduce heat to low. Cover the saucepan with a tight lid. Let the rice simmer for 15 minutes. Do not lift the lid while cooking. Steam helps cook the rice evenly.
Rest the Rice
- Turn off the heat after 15 minutes. Let the rice rest covered for five minutes. This step allows moisture to settle. It keeps the rice soft and fluffy.
Fluff and Garnish
- Use a fork to fluff the rice gently. Add fresh chopped parsley on top. Mix lightly. The rice should look light and aromatic. Serve warm with your favorite main dish.
Notes
- Always use long grain rice for fluffy texture.
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
- Stir in sautéed bell peppers for color.
- Add a squeeze of lemon for freshness.
- Use smoked paprika for deeper flavor.
- Toast rice properly for richer taste.