Description
Mushroom Rice
Ingredients
1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
8 oz mushrooms (sliced)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 small onion (finely chopped)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Directions
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes until they release moisture and turn golden.
Season with dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
Add the rice and stir to coat with the mushroom mixture.
Pour in the broth and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Fluff with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 250 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect mushroom rice every time. Begin by thoroughly rinsing your long-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear; this removes excess starch for fluffier results. In your large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter until the butter foams. Add the onion and garlic, stirring constantly for 2-3 minutes—do not let the garlic brown. Introduce the mushrooms in a single layer if possible, letting them sear for 2 minutes before stirring. Cook until deeply browned. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper at this stage to build flavor. Add the rinsed rice, stirring for a full minute to toast it lightly in the fats. Pour in the hot broth (heating it first in the microwave speeds cooking), bring to a rolling boil, then immediately reduce to the lowest possible simmer. Cover tightly and set a timer for 18 minutes. Do not lift the lid. After cooking, remove from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5-10 minutes before fluffing.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish pairs beautifully with numerous mains. Serve it alongside a pan-seared chicken breast, grilled steak, or baked salmon. For a vegetarian feast, pair it with roasted Brussels sprouts or a hearty lentil stew. To elevate it as a standalone meal, stir in a handful of fresh spinach or arugula just after cooking, letting the residual heat wilt the greens. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a dollop of sour cream adds a rich, creamy finish.
How-to Summary
Sauté aromatics, brown mushrooms, toast rice, add hot broth, simmer covered for 18 minutes, rest off heat, then fluff and garnish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Yes, but adjustments are needed. Use 2.5 cups of broth and extend the simmer time to 40-45 minutes. The liquid-to-rice ratio and cook time vary by grain.
How should I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to restore moisture, or microwave covered with a damp paper towel.
My rice turned out mushy. What happened? This is often caused by lifting the lid during simmering, which releases steam, or by using too much liquid. Ensure you measure accurately and maintain a consistent, low simmer.
Can I use different types of mushrooms? Absolutely! Cremini, shiitake, or oyster mushrooms add deeper flavor. For a luxurious version, use a mix of wild mushrooms.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly? It freezes reasonably well. Cool completely, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat with added liquid.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls: Not rinsing the rice, which can make it gluey. Crowding the mushrooms in the pan, which steams them instead of browning. Adding cold broth, which disrupts the cooking temperature. Stirring the rice while it simmers, which releases starch and creates a gummy texture. Skipping the final rest period, which is crucial for even moisture distribution.
Conclusion
This mushroom rice recipe is a quintessential comfort food that proves simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor. Its one-pan method makes it an accessible, reliable side dish for weeknights yet elegant enough for company. Mastering the technique of toasting the rice and patient simmering will yield perfectly fluffy, aromatic results every time. It’s a foundational recipe you’ll return to for its delicious simplicity and versatility.