Start by placing the rice in a large bowl and covering it with 2 inches of water. This soaking step is crucial as it allows the rice to absorb moisture, making it fluffy when cooked. Allow it to soak for at least 15 minutes, though an hour or overnight is even better!
Once the soaking time is up, drain the water from the rice. This helps remove excess starch, ensuring it doesn’t become sticky during cooking.
In a saucepan, heat the avocado oil and ghee over medium heat. As the oil heats up, you’ll notice its rich aroma filling the kitchen, creating anticipation for the delicious meal ahead.
Add the finely chopped onion and garlic to the saucepan. Sauté them while stirring occasionally until the onion becomes translucent and slightly golden, about 3 to 5 minutes. This step builds the foundation of flavor!
Now, pour in the soaked and drained rice. Continue to sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring constantly. You'll notice the rice starting to take on a light golden color, which is a great sign.
Add the remaining ingredients: water or chicken broth, lemon zest, lemon juice, and dried rosemary. Stir everything together, then cover the saucepan with a lid.
Bring the mixture to a full boil. This is where the magic starts to happen; as it boils, the flavors meld together beautifully.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Keep the pot covered and let it cook until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid, about 10 to 15 minutes. You’ll want to check it occasionally, as cooking times can vary.
After the rice has cooked through, remove the saucepan from heat and lift the lid. Fluff the rice gently with a fork. This step separates the grains and enhances the texture.
For the finishing touch, replace the lid and let the rice sit undisturbed for another 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to deepen and the rice to firm up.
Now, serve your Lemon Garlic Rosemary Rice alongside your favorite main dish. It’s perfect for soaking up sauces and complements proteins like grilled chicken or fish wonderfully!
