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If you are searching for a comforting and flavorful side dish to brighten up your dinner table, this Hot Buttered Corn Rice Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a delightful combination of tender rice, sweet bursts of corn, and that rich, golden butter melting through every grain. Simple yet incredibly satisfying, this dish delivers warmth and buttery goodness with just the right hint of garlic and fresh green onions. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Hot Buttered Corn Rice Recipe comes down to a handful of simple, everyday ingredients that work perfectly together. Each element contributes a unique touch—creamy butter for richness, garlic for a savory punch, and bright green onions for freshness, all balanced by sweet corn and fluffy rice soaking up a savory broth.
- Unsalted butter: Using unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness, and dividing it in two stages ensures both flavor build-up and a luscious finish.
- Fresh garlic cloves: Finely minced to release just the right amount of aromatic sharpness without overpowering.
- Frozen or fresh corn kernels: Sweetness and a pleasant pop of texture that make each bite exciting and colorful.
- Cooking salt/kosher salt: Just enough to enhance all the natural flavors in the dish.
- Freshly ground pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and depth without stealing the spotlight.
- Long grain rice: Uncooked and not rinsed to keep the natural starch, giving you that perfect slightly sticky but fluffy texture.
- Low-sodium chicken stock/broth: The secret to infusing every grain with savory richness, especially important if using fresh corn.
- Green onion stems: Finely sliced for a fresh, mild bite and a splash of color that brightens the dish.
How to Make Hot Buttered Corn Rice Recipe
Step 1: Choose the Right Pot
Begin with a small pot or large saucepan about 20-22 cm (8-9 inches) in diameter for optimal cooking performance. This size allows the rice to cook evenly without crowding, helping the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Corn
Melt half of your butter over high heat to get a lovely sizzle going. Add finely minced garlic and stir quickly for just 15 seconds to release its fragrant aroma without burning it. Toss in your corn along with half of the salt, stirring for two minutes until the kernels start to soften and take on a glossy, buttery sheen.
Step 3: Add Rice and Broth, Then Simmer
Stir in the uncooked rice for 30 seconds allowing it to toast slightly and soak up the buttery garlic flavors. Pour in your low-sodium chicken stock along with the remaining salt and a pinch of pepper. Stir once before bringing the mixture to a full simmer, making sure the surface ripples gently all over. Then cover the pot and reduce the heat to medium low or low if you have a powerful stove—this slow simmer is crucial for perfect rice.
Step 4: Cook Without Disturbing
Leave the pot tightly covered for 12 minutes, resisting the urge to peek or stir. This hands-off cooking allows the rice to absorb all the flavorful liquid completely and develop its ideal tender yet fluffy texture. After 12 minutes, tilt the pot gently to see if the liquid has disappeared—it should look just right.
Step 5: Let the Rice Rest
Remove the pot from heat but keep the lid on as you let it rest for a full 10 minutes. This step is essential to give the rice time to finish steaming and settle into that perfectly tender, fluffy harmony.
Step 6: Finish with Butter and Green Onions
Lift the lid and add the remaining butter cut into pieces, then fluff the rice gently to melt it throughout. Stir in the chopped green onions to add freshness and a lovely green pop that wakes up the dish visually and on the palate.
Step 7: Serve It Hot
Finally, transfer this buttery, golden Hot Buttered Corn Rice Recipe into a serving bowl while it’s still steaming hot. This dish shines best when served freshly made, so gather everyone around and watch it disappear!
How to Serve Hot Buttered Corn Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance this dish by sprinkling extra finely sliced green onions or a dusting of freshly cracked pepper right on top before serving. A small pat of butter on each portion adds an irresistible glossy finish. For a burst of color and flavor, a few chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives elevate the presentation beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Hot Buttered Corn Rice Recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of mains. It’s an ideal side for grilled chicken, seared fish, or even roasted vegetables. Its rich buttery notes complement smoky or spicy flavors perfectly, making it a versatile companion for weeknight dinners or festive meals.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the rice in individual ramekins for a charming touch at dinner parties. You can also turn it into a hearty rice bowl by topping with sautéed mushrooms, avocado slices, or a fried egg. Leftover rice can be transformed into crisped pan-fried rice cakes, offering a delightful twist that tastes just as good the next day.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Hot Buttered Corn Rice Recipe (which might be rare!), store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, maintaining most of its buttery flavor and texture when cooled.
Freezing
This rice freezes beautifully—just let it cool completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you want to enjoy it later, slowly thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating them gently.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the rice in a skillet over medium-low heat with a small splash of broth or water to revive moisture, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it covered, adding a pat of butter to restore that fresh-from-the-pot richness.
FAQs
Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh corn kernels bring a vibrant sweetness and slight crunch that’s wonderful in this Hot Buttered Corn Rice Recipe. Just remember to add an extra 2 tablespoons of chicken stock as fresh corn can soak up more liquid during cooking.
Is it okay to use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock?
Yes, vegetable stock works just fine and keeps the dish vegetarian-friendly. Choose a low-sodium variety to better control the seasoning, ensuring the buttery corn flavor still shines.
Should I rinse the rice before cooking?
For this recipe, it’s best not to rinse the rice. Leaving the natural starch on the grains helps create a slightly sticky, creamy texture that holds all the buttery goodness beautifully.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Definitely! Swap unsalted butter for a plant-based margarine or coconut oil, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. The dish remains just as flavorful and comforting with these simple substitutions.
What if I don’t have green onions?
No worries! You can replace green onions with finely chopped chives, parsley, or even a small sprinkle of fresh basil for a different but tasty fresh herb element.
Final Thoughts
This Hot Buttered Corn Rice Recipe brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels incredibly special and satisfying. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for any occasion when you want to add comfort and flavor effortlessly. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own much-loved side dish!
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