Butter Rice Recipe Veggies: Easy, Flavorful One-Pot Meal

If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful side dish or a wholesome main meal, this butter rice with veggies recipe is a perfect choice. Combining fluffy, buttery rice with a medley of fresh vegetables creates a dish that’s as colorful as it is delicious.

Whether you’re cooking for family dinners, meal prepping for the week, or need a comforting one-pot meal, this recipe ticks all the boxes. It’s easy to customize based on what’s in your fridge, making it not only tasty but versatile and budget-friendly.

What makes this butter rice with veggies stand out is the rich buttery aroma that infuses every grain of rice and the vibrant crunch of fresh vegetables that add texture and nutrients. This recipe is perfect for vegetarians and anyone who loves a comforting, homestyle meal that’s quick to prepare without compromising on flavor.

Plus, it pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes, from curries to grilled proteins.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This butter rice with veggies recipe is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make with minimal ingredients and equipment.

The butter adds a luscious creaminess that coats each grain of rice, making it irresistibly flavorful without the need for heavy sauces.

Second, the variety of vegetables not only brightens up the dish visually but also boosts its nutritional profile, providing vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. You can easily swap veggies to suit your preference or what’s in season, making this recipe highly adaptable.

Lastly, it’s a great recipe for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. Whether you want a quick weekday dinner or a satisfying side for a festive meal, this butter rice with veggies delivers on taste, ease, and wholesome goodness.

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati or long-grain rice, rinsed and drained
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
• 1/2 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 2 cups vegetable broth or water
• Salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Equipment

• Medium saucepan with lid
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Strainer or sieve (for rinsing rice)

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice: Place the rice in a fine mesh strainer and rinse under cold running water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
2. Sauté aromatics and vegetables: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add vegetables: Add diced carrot, bell pepper, corn, and peas to the pan. Sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
4. Toast the rice: Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan. Stir well to coat the rice grains with butter and vegetables. Toast the rice for 2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
5. Add liquid and seasoning: Pour in 2 cups of vegetable broth or water. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give it a gentle stir.
6. Cook the rice: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 15-18 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during this time to ensure even cooking.
7. Rest and fluff: Once cooked, remove the pan from the heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Then, use a fork to fluff the rice gently, mixing in the vegetables evenly.
8. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving for a fresh burst of flavor and color.

Tips & Variations

“For extra flavor, try cooking the rice in coconut milk mixed with vegetable broth. You can also add spices like cumin seeds or a pinch of turmeric while sautéing the onions for a subtle earthy aroma.”

If you want to make this dish vegan, simply substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or oil. This butter rice pairs wonderfully with Indian curries or grilled tofu for a complete meal.

Feel free to swap the vegetables with what you have on hand. Zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach can be excellent additions.

For a heartier dish, toss in some cooked chickpeas or lentils.

To add a crunchy texture, sprinkle toasted nuts or seeds like cashews or pumpkin seeds on top just before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This butter rice with veggies is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a hearty side dish alongside your favorite vegetarian curries, such as a rich lentil dal or a spicy chickpea curry.

It also pairs beautifully with grilled or roasted vegetables for a light meal.

For a protein boost, add sautéed tofu, tempeh, or pan-fried paneer cubes on the side. You can also enjoy it as a standalone meal topped with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or basil.

Looking for more vegetarian inspiration? Check out our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion for a variety of delicious dishes.

Conclusion

This butter rice with veggies recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a comforting, wholesome meal that’s quick and easy to prepare. The combination of buttery rice and fresh vegetables creates a satisfying dish full of flavor and nutrition.

Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend lunch, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

By using simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe proves that you don’t need complicated techniques or expensive items to create a delicious meal. Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable, so you can experiment with different vegetables and seasonings to suit your taste.

For more healthy and delicious vegetarian recipes, be sure to explore our Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals and spice up your cooking with the Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend.

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