Golden Butter Rice Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon finely grated fresh ginger
• 1 1/4 teaspoons ground turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon fine salt
• 2 cups basmati rice or other long grain white rice
• 3 cups water
• 1/3 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
• 1/3 cup sliced green onions (optional)

Directions

1. Melt the butter in a pan or pot with a tight-fitting lid over medium heat. Once the butter starts to bubble, add the grated ginger, ground turmeric, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, and salt. Cook while whisking for 1 minute.
2. Add the rice to the pan and stir until each grain is coated with the butter mixture.
3. Pour in the water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once it starts boiling, gently shake and swirl the pan to settle the rice into an even layer, then reduce the heat to medium-low.
4. Cover the pan tightly and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Turn off the heat and let the rice rest, still covered, for 10 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid or stirring the rice during this time.
6. After 10 minutes, remove the lid and use a fork to fluff and separate the rice grains.
7. Season the rice to taste, then serve immediately, garnished with optional walnuts and green onions.

Chef's Note

The times provided are for basmati rice. If using another type of long-grain white rice, adjust the cooking times according to the package instructions.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 161
• Total Fat: 12g (15% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 7g (36% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 31mg (10% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 271mg (12% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 13g (5% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 0g (1% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 1g (3% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 0mg
• Calcium: 12mg (1% Daily Value)
• Iron: 1mg (4% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 34mg (1% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

The History of Golden Butter Rice

Golden Butter Rice is a modern adaptation inspired by traditional Indian flavors. Its roots trace back to the classic golden milk, a spiced turmeric drink valued in Ayurvedic medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties. By incorporating turmeric and butter into rice, chefs created a dish that is both visually striking and richly flavored. The combination of ginger, turmeric, and a touch of cayenne pepper evokes the warm, aromatic notes characteristic of Indian cuisine while transforming a simple staple like basmati rice into a celebratory side dish.

Regional Variations

While the recipe provided uses Indian spices, regional variations exist across South Asia. In Northern India, rice dishes often feature saffron or ghee, while Southern Indian preparations may include curry leaves and mustard seeds for additional fragrance. In contemporary Western adaptations, nuts such as walnuts or almonds and green onions are added to provide texture and visual appeal. Each variation highlights local taste preferences while keeping the golden, buttery essence intact.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Golden Butter Rice differs from plain butter rice or pilaf in its specific use of turmeric and ginger, which impart both color and a subtle spiciness. Unlike saffron rice, which has a more floral and slightly bitter aroma, this dish balances sweetness from brown sugar and heat from cayenne pepper. The result is a harmonious blend of savory, sweet, and mildly spicy flavors that makes it distinctive among rice-based dishes.

Typical Serving Occasions

This dish is versatile and can be served at both casual family dinners and festive gatherings. It pairs exceptionally well with grilled or roasted meats, fish, and vegetable curries. Often, restaurants with an Indian or fusion menu will feature it as a side to complement richly spiced main courses. At home, it is a favorite for weekend meals, where its vibrant color adds a celebratory touch to the table.

Interesting Facts

• The golden hue comes entirely from turmeric, a spice long prized for its health benefits, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Using basmati rice enhances the dish with its naturally long, fluffy grains and delicate aroma, which absorb flavors more effectively than other rice varieties.
• The addition of brown sugar may seem unusual in a savory dish, but it balances the spice and deepens the buttery richness.
• Golden Butter Rice has gained popularity on social media and cooking blogs for its photogenic color and easy preparation, inspiring home cooks worldwide.

FAQ about Golden Butter Rice Recipe

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