There’s something magical about simple ingredients transforming into a deeply flavorful dish—and this Savory Golden Onion Butter Jasmine Rice is exactly that.
Tender jasmine rice infused with sweet, golden caramelized onions and rich, creamy butter creates the ultimate comforting side dish that’s anything but boring.
It pairs effortlessly with everything from grilled meats to roasted vegetables, or can be enjoyed simply on its own.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rich and buttery flavor with sweet, golden onions
Easy to make with just a few pantry staples
Perfect side dish for any protein or vegetable
Light, fluffy jasmine rice texture
Crowd-pleaser for family meals, potlucks, and holidays
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Jasmine rice – fragrant, tender, and perfect for absorbing flavor.
Yellow onion – sliced thinly and cooked until golden and sweet.
Unsalted butter – adds richness and silky mouthfeel.
Salt – enhances all the flavors.
Water or broth – for cooking the rice (broth adds extra depth).
Pro Tips Before You Start
Rinse jasmine rice thoroughly to remove excess starch for fluffier grains.
Slice onions thinly and cook low and slow for the best golden caramelization.
Use a heavy-bottomed pan to prevent burning the onions or rice.
For extra flavor, cook rice in chicken or vegetable broth instead of water.
Let the rice steam off heat before fluffing for perfect texture.
How to Make Savory Golden Onion Butter Jasmine Rice
Step 1: Rinse the Rice
Place the jasmine rice in a fine mesh strainer and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear.
This helps remove extra starch and prevents clumpy rice.
Step 2: Caramelize the Onions
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt.
Cook, stirring frequently, until the onions are soft, golden, and sweet—about 12–15 minutes.
Step 3: Toast the Rice
Once the onions are golden, add the rinsed rice directly into the pot.
Stir well to coat the grains with the buttery onion mixture.
Toast for about 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Add Water and Simmer
Pour in the measured water (or broth) and add a bit more salt to taste.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.
Step 5: Cook the Rice
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly with a lid, and simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
Step 6: Steam and Fluff
After 15 minutes, turn off the heat and let the rice sit covered for another 5–10 minutes.
This final steam makes the rice extra fluffy.
Step 7: Serve
Fluff the rice gently with a fork, mixing the onions evenly throughout.
Serve warm as a side dish or base for your favorite meals.
What to Serve It With
Grilled lemon herb chicken
Baked salmon with dill sauce
Honey garlic shrimp
Roasted vegetables like carrots or asparagus
A fresh cucumber or tomato salad
Variations / Substitutions
Use basmati rice for a slightly different aroma and texture.
Add a pinch of turmeric for an even deeper golden color.
Stir in chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme at the end for freshness.
Sprinkle in a handful of toasted slivered almonds for crunch.
Swap butter for ghee for a more intense, nutty flavor.
Storage & Leftovers
Store cooled rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently in the microwave or in a saucepan with a splash of water or broth.
Freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
FAQs
Can I use brown jasmine rice?
Yes, but adjust cooking time and liquid amounts—brown rice needs more water and about 40–45 minutes to cook.
What’s the best way to prevent soggy rice?
Rinse the rice thoroughly and use a tight-fitting lid.
Resist the urge to lift the lid while cooking!
Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely—just swap the butter for a vegan butter substitute or coconut oil.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes! Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to turn it into a one-bowl meal.
How do I get deeper onion flavor?
Cook onions even slower and longer until caramelized for extra sweetness and depth.
Can I cook this in a rice cooker?
Yes! Caramelize the onions separately, then combine all ingredients in the rice cooker and cook as usual.
Final Thoughts
Savory Golden Onion Butter Jasmine Rice is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special.
Sweet caramelized onions, tender fluffy rice, and rich butter make every bite melt in your mouth.
This is the kind of side dish you’ll find yourself craving—comforting, versatile, and a little bit luxurious.
Once you try it, it might just become your new favorite way to enjoy jasmine rice!
Full Recipe Card (Ingredients + Instructions)
Ingredients
1 cup jasmine rice
1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cups water (or broth)
½ teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
Instructions
Rinse jasmine rice under cold water until water runs clear.
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Add sliced onion and a pinch of salt. Cook 12–15 minutes until golden.
Stir in rinsed rice. Toast for 2–3 minutes.
Add water (or broth) and additional salt. Bring to a boil.
Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 minutes.
Turn off heat and let steam, covered, for 5–10 minutes.
Fluff with a fork, mix onions evenly, and serve warm.
