Easy Garlic Rice for a delicious side dish

Picture this: it’s a busy weeknight and you’re tired from a long day at work. You want to make something quick and easy for dinner, but you also don’t want to sacrifice flavour. If that sounds familiar, then I have the perfect solution for you – Garlic Rice!

Garlic Rice is perfect for a side dish as part of a curry, or Chinese fakeaway, but you can have it with anything you fancy. It’s also a great way to switch up your usual rice routine and add some variety to your meals. Plus, who doesn’t love garlic?

The ingredients

2 cups basmati rice

Basmati rice is the perfect choice for this recipe because it has a delicate, nutty flavour that pairs well with the bold flavours of garlic. It also has a light and fluffy texture when cooked, making it the ideal base for this dish. Basmati rice is also easy to find in most supermarkets and cooks up quickly, making it convenient for those busy weeknights. If you only have long grain rice then that will work pretty well too.

4 cups water

Water may seem like a simple and obvious ingredient, but it plays a crucial role in making the perfect Garlic Rice. Using 4 cups of water to cook the rice ensures that it will be fully cooked and fluffy. Too little water can result in undercooked rice, while too much water can make the rice mushy.

1/3 cup vermicelli

Vermicelli is a type of thin, spaghetti-like pasta that adds another layer of texture to the dish. It also helps to keep the rice from clumping together while cooking. The vermicelli will toast in the pan with the garlic, giving it a slightly nutty flavour and crispy texture.

4-6 large, or 6-8 small cloves of garlic

Garlic is the star of this dish! It adds a rich, savoury flavour that pairs perfectly with rice. Garlic also has many health benefits, including boosting the immune system and promoting heart health. Plus, it’s easily accessible and affordable.

Oil

Using oil helps to prevent the rice from sticking to the pan while cooking. However, if you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute olive oil or a cooking spray such as Frylight.

½ tsp salt

Salt is an essential ingredient in any dish, and it plays an important role in Garlic Rice. It helps to enhance the flavours of the other ingredients and brings out the natural sweetness of the rice. Just be careful not to add too much salt, as it can easily overpower the dish.

Parsley or coriander, optional for serving

Parsley or coriander adds a pop of fresh, herbal flavour to the Garlic Rice. While not necessary, it can elevate the dish and add some vibrant green colour to your plate. Both herbs also have health benefits, such as being rich in antioxidants and aiding in digestion. Feel free to use whichever you have in the fridge or perhaps growing on your windowsill.

Health Benefits of Garlic Rice

Garlic Rice not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides several health benefits. Garlic is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help boost the immune system and fight off illness. It is also a good source of vitamins C and B6, manganese, and selenium.

Using olive oil instead of vegetable oil for cooking can lower the risk of heart disease and improve cholesterol levels. The combination of garlic, rice, and herbs in this dish makes it a nutritious and delicious choice for any meal. So go ahead and enjoy your Garlic Rice guilt-free!

Tips for making the perfect Garlic Rice

Here are some tips to help you make the perfect Garlic Rice:

• Use long-grain rice for the best texture and consistency.
• Rinse your rice before cooking to remove excess starch, which can cause it to become sticky.
• Always use a heavy-bottomed pan to prevent burning and sticking.
• Keep an eye on the heat while cooking – too high and the garlic can burn, too low and the rice will be undercooked.
• For added flavour, lightly toast the rice in olive oil before adding water.

By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked and flavorful Garlic Rice every time. Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, and toppings to make it your own unique dish. Enjoy!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Wash your rice at least 5 times, or until the water is no longer cloudy anymore.

Crush your garlic.

In a medium-sized pot, over medium heat, heat some oil or cooking spray. Once the oil is hot, add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.

Add the vermicelli and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the garlic and vermicelli are golden brown.

Add your washed rice to the pot, then the water and salt. Stir until well combined.

Bring the pot with rice to high heat without a lid, until the water starts bubbling.

Then bring the heat all the way down to low, cover with a lid and let it cook for 16-18 minutes.

Remove from the hob and stir the rice.

Enjoy while warm. You can garnish it with some fresh coriander or parsley, but that is optional.

Storage instructions

After making garlic rice, it is important to store any leftovers properly to maintain its freshness and flavour. Allow the rice to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container or ziplock bag. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to prevent the rice from drying out.

You can also freeze the rice in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. However, do note that the texture of the rice may change slightly after being frozen and reheated. It is recommended to consume leftover garlic rice within 2 days if stored in the fridge or within a month if stored in the freezer.

FAQ

Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can definitely substitute brown rice for white rice in this recipe. However, the cooking time may vary and you may need to add more water as brown rice requires a longer cooking time and absorbs more liquid.

Q: Can I use other types of pasta besides vermicelli?

A: Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile and you can use any type of pasta that you prefer, such as broken pieces of spaghetti or orzo, which both work well. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: Can I make this recipe without using oil?

A: Yes, you can omit the oil if desired. However, the garlic rice may not have as much flavour and may stick to the pan more. You can try using cooking spray or a non-stick pan instead.

Q: Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

A: Of course! Feel free to customise this recipe by adding your favourite vegetables, such as peppers, carrots, or mushrooms. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly for each vegetable.

Substitutions

Don’t have all the ingredients for Garlic Rice on hand? No problem! There are several substitutions you can make to still achieve a delicious dish. Instead of using long-grain rice, you can use jasmine rice or basmati rice for similar results. If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use some garlic from a jar or garlic powder or granules as well. Just remember for healthier dishes to avoid garlic in oil.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Garlic Rice is a simple yet flavourful dish that not only tastes great but also provides health benefits. By incorporating garlic into your diet, you can help to lower the risk of heart disease and improve cholesterol levels. With the added bonus of being able to customise it with different herbs and spices, Garlic Rice is a versatile and nutritious addition to any meal. So go ahead and give it a try!

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