Oven Baked Rice Recipe

Oven-baked rice is a simple and reliable way to get perfectly fluffy rice every time. By baking the rice in the oven, you ensure even cooking with minimal effort, making it an ideal method for busy weeknights or when preparing large batches. This method requires very little attention, so you can focus on preparing the rest of your meal while the rice cooks to perfection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Easy and Hands-Free: Once it’s in the oven, there’s no need to stir or check on the rice.
• Perfectly Cooked Every Time: The oven provides even heat, ensuring your rice turns out fluffy and evenly cooked.
• Great for Large Batches: This method is scalable and works well for feeding a crowd.
• Customizable: You can flavor the rice with broth, herbs, or spices to suit your taste.

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Key Ingredients

• Rice: You can use any variety, such as white, basmati, jasmine, or brown rice. Be sure to adjust the liquid and cooking time based on the type of rice.
• Water or Broth: Using broth (vegetable, chicken, or beef) instead of water enhances the flavor of the rice.
• Salt: A pinch of salt adds seasoning to the rice, making it more flavorful.
• Butter or Olive Oil (optional): A little butter or oil adds richness and prevents the rice from sticking together.

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How to Make Oven Baked Rice

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Rinse the Rice

• Rinse 1 1/2 cups of rice under cold water in a fine mesh sieve until the water runs clear. This step helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.

Step 3: Boil the Liquid

• In a saucepan, bring 2 1/2 cups of water or broth to a boil. Add a pinch of salt for flavor, and stir in 1 tablespoon of butter or olive oil if using.

Step 4: Combine the Rice and Liquid

• Place the rinsed rice in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the boiling liquid over the rice, and give it a quick stir to ensure the rice is evenly distributed.

Step 5: Cover and Bake

• Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil or a lid to trap the steam. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes for white rice or 40-45 minutes for brown rice, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.

Step 6: Let It Rest and Fluff

• Once the rice is done, remove it from the oven and let it sit, covered, for about 5-10 minutes. This resting time allows the rice to steam and become fluffy. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

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Tips for the Best Oven Baked Rice

1. Rinse the Rice: Rinsing helps remove excess starch, ensuring that the rice doesn’t clump together.
2. Use Hot Liquid: Pouring hot water or broth over the rice helps it start cooking evenly and prevents any undercooked grains.
3. Seal Tightly: Make sure to cover the dish well to trap the steam, which is essential for cooking the rice thoroughly.
4. Add Flavor: Consider using broth instead of water for extra flavor, or add herbs, garlic, or spices to the liquid for a more flavorful dish.

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Recipe Variations

• Herbed Rice: Add a sprig of thyme or rosemary to the rice before baking for a fragrant, herbed rice dish.
• Coconut Rice: Replace half the water with coconut milk for a creamy, slightly sweet flavor.
• Mexican Rice: Add a tablespoon of tomato paste, a pinch of cumin, and a dash of chili powder to the broth for a flavorful Mexican-inspired rice.
• Pilaf-Style Rice: Sauté some onions, garlic, and diced vegetables in olive oil before adding the rice for a more flavorful pilaf.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use brown rice for this recipe?

Yes! For brown rice, increase the baking time to 40-45 minutes and use the same liquid ratio (2 1/2 cups liquid for 1 1/2 cups rice).

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make oven-baked rice ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it in the oven or microwave with a little splash of water to restore moisture.

3. How do I store leftover rice?

Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat it with a small amount of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.

4. Can I freeze oven-baked rice?

Yes, you can freeze cooked rice. Cool it completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months and reheat when ready to serve.

5. How do I prevent the rice from becoming too dry?

Make sure the baking dish is tightly covered to trap the steam. Let the rice rest after baking to allow it to fully absorb any remaining moisture.

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