There may be many different things that are on the menu but in homes around the world, rice is going to be a staple. It’s delicious, goes with almost anything and is easy to make.
The problem is, most people who try to make rice fall short of the mark. They envision that their rice is going to be fluffy and flavorful but it ends up tasting bland and sticky.
If you would like the secret to making perfect rice, it is as easy as knowing what the restaurants at hotels do. It’s a simple recipe but it is one that will change your life.
Gather the following ingredients:
1 cup of rice (any variety)
2 cups of broth (chicken, vegetable, or beef)
1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
1-2 cloves of garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: a bay leaf, fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, or a splash of white wine
Instructions for the perfect hotel rice:
1: Rinse the Rice: Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.
2: Prepare the Aromatics: In a medium-sized pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant. If you’re using a bay leaf or fresh herbs, add them at this stage for extra flavor.
3: Toast the Rice: Add the rinsed rice to the pot with the aromatics. Stir continuously for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to lightly toast. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the rice.
4: Add the Broth: Pour in the broth, replacing the usual water. The ratio of rice to liquid is typically 1:2, but you can adjust based on the type of rice you’re using. For added depth of flavor, you can also add a splash of white wine at this point.
5: Season and Cook: Add salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender.
6: Rest and Fluff: Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to steam and results in a fluffier texture. Afterward, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.
