Are you craving that comforting, savory breakfast rice you remember from Shoney's? That perfectly cooked rice, infused with the subtle sweetness of butter and a hint of savory goodness? Well, you're in luck! This recipe recreates that beloved Shoney's breakfast rice experience right in your own kitchen. It's easier than you think, requiring minimal ingredients and even less time. Perfect for a quick weeknight breakfast or a leisurely weekend brunch, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth (for extra flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Make sure the butter is completely melted before proceeding.
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Toast the Rice: Add the rice to the melted butter and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This toasting step helps enhance the flavor and texture of the rice.
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Add Liquid & Seasonings: Pour in the water (or chicken broth) along with the salt and pepper. Stir well to combine.
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Bring to a Boil: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked through.
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Fluff & Serve: After 20 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the rice to steam and finish cooking. Gently fluff the rice with a fork before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Tips for the Best Breakfast Rice:
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Rice Type: Long-grain white rice is recommended for this recipe as it cooks evenly and results in a fluffy texture. Avoid using instant rice or other types of rice, as they may not achieve the desired consistency.
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Liquid Ratio: Sticking to the 2:1 ratio of liquid to rice is crucial for perfectly cooked rice. If using broth instead of water, reduce the salt slightly to avoid over-seasoning.
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Don't Lift the Lid: Resist the urge to lift the lid while the rice is simmering. This will allow the steam to cook the rice evenly and prevent it from becoming mushy.
Variations:
- Cheesy Rice: Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or your favorite cheese during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Stir gently to melt the cheese into the rice.
- Savory Rice: Experiment with different herbs and spices. A pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or dried parsley would add a nice savory touch.
- Spicy Rice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 5g
This Shoney's-inspired breakfast rice recipe is a fantastic addition to your quick and easy breakfast repertoire. It's a healthy, delicious, and satisfying way to start your day, perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekends. Enjoy!