Spring Onion & Roasted Garlic Brown Rice Recipe
A flavorful and aromatic dish, Spring Onion & Roasted Garlic Brown Rice combines the rich taste of roasted garlic with the fresh bite of spring onions, making it the perfect accompaniment to both vegetarian and meat-based main dishes. This easy-to-make recipe brings together the heartiness of brown rice with the earthy tones of garlic and the delicate sweetness of spring onions, creating a balanced and nutritious side that pairs wonderfully with chicken, creamy sauces, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Brown Rice (washed and soaked) | 1-1/2 cups |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic (finely chopped) | 6 cloves |
| Spring Onion Bulbs (finely chopped) | 1/4 cup |
| Spring Onion Greens (finely chopped) | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| Water | 2-1/2 cups |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~160 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | ~34g |
| Protein | ~4g |
| Fat | ~2g |
| Fiber | ~3g |
| Sodium | ~200mg |
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 65 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Continental
Course: Main Course
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions:
Step 1: Soak the Rice
Start by washing and soaking the brown rice for at least 30 minutes. This will help the rice cook evenly and reduce the cooking time.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
In a pressure cooker, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped garlic cloves. Roast the garlic gently, stirring occasionally, until it turns a light golden-brown color and becomes fragrant. This process will take about 1-2 minutes.
Step 3: Sauté Spring Onion Bulbs
Add the spring onion bulbs to the pressure cooker and sauté them with the garlic for an additional 1-2 minutes. Cook until the spring onions turn translucent and soften, adding a sweet and savory aroma to the oil.
Step 4: Add Rice and Water
Next, add salt to taste, followed by the drained brown rice. Stir the rice gently to mix it with the garlic and spring onion. Pour in 2-1/2 cups of water and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Make sure the rice is evenly distributed.
Step 5: Pressure Cook the Rice
Close the pressure cooker with its lid and set it to cook. Cook for about 4-5 whistles, then turn off the flame. Allow the pressure to naturally release, which usually takes about 10-15 minutes. This method ensures that the rice is perfectly cooked without becoming too soft or sticky.
Step 6: Fluff the Rice
Once the pressure has been released, carefully open the cooker. Use a fork to fluff the rice gently, ensuring that the grains remain separate and fluffy. Add the finely chopped spring onion greens and mix them into the rice. Be careful not to break the rice grains as you stir.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Your Spring Onion & Roasted Garlic Brown Rice is now ready to serve! This delicious dish pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses, such as Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce or Spinach Ricotta Balls in Garlic Tomato Basil Sauce. For a complete meal, consider adding a side of Pan-Roasted Zucchini & Mushrooms.
To end your meal on a sweet note, serve a dessert like Greek Yogurt Chocolate Mousse, which complements the savory flavors of the rice beautifully.
Tips:
- Soaking the rice: If you have the time, soak the rice for up to 1 hour. This will make it even fluffier when cooked.
- Add spices for extra flavor: You can add a pinch of black pepper or a small bay leaf while cooking the rice to infuse it with extra flavor.
- Variation: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or carrots to the rice for a colorful and more hearty side dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Spring Onion & Roasted Garlic Brown Rice is a great alternative to plain rice, offering a satisfying combination of flavors that elevate any meal. It’s easy to prepare, made with wholesome ingredients, and complements both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Whether served with a rich creamy sauce or a fresh vegetable dish, this rice makes an excellent and nutritious accompaniment.
Enjoy the earthy richness of garlic and the refreshing taste of spring onions, all nestled within the chewy texture of brown rice. This dish brings out the best of simple ingredients, proving that sometimes, the simplest meals are the most flavorful.
