Last week, while cooking dinner for my family, I found myself in a delightful dilemma: how to make plain rice exciting. That’s when the idea of Buttered Corn Rice struck me! This quick and easy recipe brings together the charm of buttery rice with sweet corn and a hint of garlic, transforming a simple side into a standout dish. Not only is it kid-friendly, making it perfect for those fussy eaters, but it’s also a fantastic option for last-minute meals. Whether paired with grilled chicken or served as a main dish, this comforting Buttered Corn Rice will steal the show. Ready to elevate your dining experience? Let’s dive into the details!
Why Choose Buttered Corn Rice?
Ease of Preparation: This quick and easy recipe requires minimal effort—perfect for busy weeknights.
Family-Friendly Favorite: It’s a hit with kids and adults alike, making mealtime enjoyable for everyone.
Savory Bliss: Featuring a deliciously buttery flavor complemented by sweet corn and garlic, it’s truly irresistible.
Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or even as part of a potluck spread, it complements countless mains.
Minimal Ingredients: You only need a few staples—check out my tips for enhancing this dish with additions like cooked peas or bell peppers.
Elevate your meals with this delightful Buttered Corn Rice, and explore more ideas like Chicken Rice Feels or Mexican Street Corn for a fulfilling family dinner!
Buttered Corn Rice Ingredients
For the Base
- Medium grain rice – This grain absorbs flavors well, creating a deliciously creamy texture.
- Olive oil – Adds moisture and prevents sticking during the cooking process.
- Salted butter – Enhances the dish with a rich, buttery flavor that kids will love.
For the Flavor
- Garlic – Infuses the rice with aromatic depth; feel free to adjust for your taste.
- Finely diced white onion – Contributes sweet and savory notes that round out the dish.
- Chicken bouillon – Elevates the flavor profile of your Buttered Corn Rice; can be swapped for vegetable bouillon for a vegetarian twist.
For the Sweetness
- Frozen corn (10 ounces) – Adds bursts of sweetness without the need for thawing, making preparation a breeze.
For Cooking
- Boiling water (3 cups) – Essential for properly cooking the rice and melding flavors together.
For Garnish (optional)
- Chopped parsley – A fresh touch for color and additional flavor.
- Sliced green onion – Offers a punch of flavor and a pop of color; sprinkle on top just before serving.
Get ready to enjoy a warm bowl of Buttered Corn Rice that’s not only easy to make but also a perfect addition to your family meals!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Buttered Corn Rice
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a large 12-inch skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and add 2 tablespoons of salted butter over medium-low heat. Once the butter melts and begins to foam, add 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 finely diced white onion. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant and translucent, releasing aromatic flavors that form a savory base for your Buttered Corn Rice.
Step 2: Toast the Rice
Add 1 cup of medium grain rice to the skillet, stirring to coat the grains in the aromatic mixture. Continue to stir occasionally as the rice cooks, allowing it to toast for approximately 5 minutes until it turns a light golden brown. This toasting not only enhances the flavor but also creates a wonderful texture in your Buttered Corn Rice.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Stir in 10 ounces of frozen corn, mixing it well with the rice. Quickly pour in 3 cups of boiling water along with 1 tablespoon of chicken bouillon. Carefully stir everything together to ensure an even distribution of ingredients. The bubbling water will kickstart the cooking process, leading your Buttered Corn Rice to become a flavorful dish.
Step 4: Cook the Rice
Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid. Let it simmer gently for 15 minutes. This step is crucial for fluffy rice, as the covered steam will help the grains cook perfectly without drying out.
Step 5: Rest the Rice
After 15 minutes of cooking, turn off the heat but keep the lid on for an additional 5 minutes. This resting period will allow the flavors to meld together while ensuring that the rice remains tender and fluffy. You’ll know it’s ready when you can see little steam escaping from the skillet.
Step 6: Fluff and Serve
Finally, remove the skillet lid and use a fork to fluff the Buttered Corn Rice gently. This action will separate the grains and enhance its fluffy texture. Serve warm, optionally garnished with chopped parsley or sliced green onion for added color and fresh flavor. Enjoy this comforting Buttered Corn Rice with your favorite mains!
How to Store and Freeze Buttered Corn Rice
Fridge: Store leftover Buttered Corn Rice in an airtight container for up to 2 days to keep it fresh.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Make sure to label it with the date.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of water to maintain moisture and fluffiness.
Thawing: If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results before reheating.
Buttered Corn Rice Variations
Feel free to get creative and put your own spin on this delightful dish!
-
Vegetarian Swap: Replace chicken bouillon with vegetable bouillon for a comforting, meat-free option.
-
Different Rice: Switch medium grain rice for long-grain rice for a fluffier texture or short-grain for a stickier result.
-
Add Spice: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper during cooking for a mild heat that elevates the flavors.
-
Herbed Delight: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or cilantro before serving to add freshness and aromatic complexity.
-
Creamy Twist: Mix in a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream after cooking for a richer, creamier texture that kids will adore.
-
Flavorful Veggies: Add cooked peas or roasted bell peppers after cooking for a burst of color and added nutrition that enriches each bite.
-
Nutty Addition: Toss in toasted almonds or sesame seeds to provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, taking your dish to new heights.
Looking for more rice inspiration? Don’t miss my recipes for Shawarma Chicken Rice or Greek Lemon Rice to round out your meal options!
Expert Tips for Buttered Corn Rice
-
Use Boiling Water: This helps the rice cook evenly and absorb flavors properly. Make sure your water is already boiling before adding it to the pan.
-
Keep the Lid On: Avoid lifting the lid during the cooking process—this retains steam, which is essential for fluffy Buttered Corn Rice.
-
Toast for Flavor: Don’t skip toasting the rice until it turns golden brown; this step adds a delightful depth of flavor and a unique texture.
-
Customize Nutrition: For added nutrition, consider folding in cooked peas or diced bell peppers after cooking to enhance the dish without compromising the original flavor.
-
Perfect Storage Tips: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, add a splash of water to prevent the rice from drying out.
What to Serve with Buttered Corn Rice?
This delightful side dish opens up a world of delicious pairings that delight the senses.
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy chicken complements the buttery rice perfectly, making for a satisfying meal.
- Pan-Seared Fish: The flaky fish paired with sweet corn rice creates a harmonious balance of textures and flavors.
- Pork Chops: Savory pork chops elevate the overall experience with their rich flavor, making this a timeless pairing.
- Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad adds a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy rice.
- Steamed Broccoli: Nutritious steamed broccoli brings a vibrant color and healthy element to your plate.
- Cornbread Muffins: A sweet cornbread muffin alongside buttery corn rice makes for a comforting, southern-inspired feast.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is an indulgent addition that complement the rich flavors of the rice.
- Citrus-infused Sparkling Water: A bubbly drink with a hint of citrus refreshes the palate, tying together all the flavors.
- Chocolate Mousse: End the meal on a sweet note with silky chocolate mousse, creating a lovely contrast to the savory dish.
Make Ahead Options
Buttered Corn Rice is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can sauté the garlic and onion, and toast the rice up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can mix the frozen corn with the rice mixture ahead of time. To maintain that delicious buttery flavor, be sure to keep the ingredients refrigerated until you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat the mixture in the skillet, add the boiling water and chicken bouillon, and follow the original cooking instructions. This way, you’ll have a comforting and flavorful Buttered Corn Rice dish ready in no time!
Buttered Corn Rice Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best corn for my Buttered Corn Rice?
When it comes to corn, frozen corn is a great option for this recipe since it’s pre-washed and ready to use—no thawing needed! Look for corn that has a vibrant yellow color and is free from dark spots or freezer burn. If you prefer fresh corn, opt for ears with firm, plump kernels and green husks.
How should I store leftover Buttered Corn Rice?
Store any leftover Buttered Corn Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the pan or microwave to help retain moisture—this will keep it deliciously fluffy!
Can I freeze Buttered Corn Rice?
Absolutely! You can freeze Buttered Corn Rice for up to 3 months. Place it in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Don’t forget to label it with the date! When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the rice overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
What should I do if my Buttered Corn Rice turns out mushy?
If your rice is mushy, it might be due to overcooking or too much liquid. To prevent this, ensure you’re using the correct water-to-rice ratio (3 cups of water for 1 cup of rice) and avoid lifting the lid while cooking. In the future, you can try adding a little less water or reducing cooking time by a couple of minutes.
Is Buttered Corn Rice suitable for people with allergies?
Great question! This dish includes gluten-free ingredients; however, it does contain butter, which isn’t suitable for those with dairy allergies. For a dairy-free option, you can substitute the butter with olive oil and ensure you’re using a chicken bouillon that is certified gluten-free if necessary. Always check labels to ensure they meet your specific dietary needs.
Buttered Corn Rice: The Ultimate Comfort Food Side Dish
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of salted butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and finely diced onion, sauté for about 30 seconds.
- Add 1 cup of medium grain rice, stirring to coat in the mixture. Toast for about 5 minutes until light golden brown.
- Stir in 10 ounces of frozen corn, then add 3 cups of boiling water and 1 tablespoon of chicken bouillon. Mix well.
- Increase heat to a rolling boil, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Turn off heat and keep lid on for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and serve warm, optionally garnished with parsley and green onion.
Leave a Reply