Steamed Rice

My folks ALWAYS made their rice this way (Dad taught Mom, too!), only omitting the onion and using water only when preparing it for something sweet, like a rice pudding. It really takes no longer than ordinary rice, and it tastes so much better. Try it, and you will never go back to making rice the old way! The orzo option is my own addition and is a nice variation, especially when having company.

• Ready In: 30 mins
• Serves: 2-4

Ingredients

• 1  cup  uncooked long-grain rice
• 2  tablespoons butter or 2  tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (or a combination)
• 1  small onion, chopped
• 2  cups chicken broth or 2  cups beef broth or 2  cups vegetable broth (preferred) or 2  cups  very hot tap water
• 1  teaspoon salt (decrease or delete if chicken broth is salted, required with water)

• Variation (additional)

• 1⁄2 cup orzo pasta or 1⁄2 cup  broken up spaghetti (in 1/2" pieces)
• 1  cup  additional broth or 1  cup hot water

Directions

1. Saute rice in butter just until translucent and very lightly browned.
2. Add chopped onion, and continue sauteing until onion is translucent, stirring frequently to prevent onion from burning.
3. Drain any excess butter or olive oil.
4. Add stock or water carefully to prevent steam burns; it WILL blow steam!
5. Adjust heat for a slow simmer, cover, and cook about 15 minutes without stirring or uncovering.
6. If all liquid is not absorbed, remove cover, and continue cooking for another 5 minutes.
7. Fluff gently with a fork just before serving.
8. Variation: Lightly brown orzo or broken pasta in butter and/or olive oil before adding rice.
9. Add rice when orzo is already lightly browned, and saute as above, but orzo will be dark brown by the time rice is light brown and onion is translucent; do not burn orzo.
10. Add 3 cups of liquid instead of 2 cups, and cook as above.