How to Cook Butter Rice in Rice Cooker: A Step-by-Step Guide

By Avi Green August 01, 2024

How to cook butter rice in rice cooker is a common question for many who love this incredibly delicious and easy dish. Butter rice is a simple yet tasty recipe that you can prepare using just a few ingredients and a rice cooker, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting side dish for your barbecue.

Why You Should Try Butter Rice

Butter rice is an exceptionally tasty and versatile dish that pairs well with various entrees, from grilled meats to vegetarian dishes. Its rich, creamy texture and buttery flavor enhance the overall dining experience. Additionally, cooking butter rice in a rice cooker simplifies the process, ensuring consistently fluffy and flavorful rice every time. If you've ever wondered how to cook butter rice in rice cooker, you're in for a treat as we take you through each detailed step.

Ingredients You'll Need

2 cups of jasmine or basmati rice
3 cups of water
3 tablespoons of unsalted butter
1 teaspoon of salt, or to taste
1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro, optional)

Essential Cookware for This Recipe

Step-by-Step Instructions on How to Cook Butter Rice in a Rice Cooker

1. Rinse the Rice Thoroughly

The first step in how to cook butter rice in rice cooker is to rinse the rice thoroughly. This process removes excess starch from the rice, which can cause it to become too sticky or gummy during the cooking process. Place the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Once thoroughly rinsed, allow the rice to drain for a minute or two. This step ensures that your butter rice will have the ideal fluffy texture.

2. Measure Your Ingredients

Precision is key when learning how to cook butter rice in rice cooker. Using accurate measurements ensures the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Measure out 2 cups of jasmine or basmati rice, 3 cups of water, 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon of salt. If you prefer to add a splash of color and flavor, chop up some fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, and set them aside for later.

3. Add Rice and Water to the Rice Cooker

Place the rinsed rice into the rice cooker's inner pot. Add the measured water to the rice, ensuring an even distribution. Depending on your rice cooker's size and brand, you might have specific water-to-rice ratios marked inside the pot. However, a 1:1.5 ratio of rice to water generally works well for butter rice. Once the water is added, give the pot a slight shake to ensure the rice is evenly distributed in the water.

4. Add Butter and Salt

The most critical element in how to cook butter rice in rice cooker is the butter. Add 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter directly into the rice cooker pot. Spread it evenly across the surface of the rice and water mixture. Sprinkle the teaspoon of salt over the top. The butter will melt during cooking, infusing the rice with a rich, creamy flavor and the salt will enhance the overall taste.

5. Start the Cooking Process

Cover the rice cooker and select the 'white rice' or 'rice' setting, depending on your rice cooker model. Press start, and let the rice cooker do its magic. This step eliminates the need for constant attention and stirring, making your task much simpler. It's one of the main advantages of cooking butter rice in a rice cooker. The cooker will typically take around 20-30 minutes to complete cooking, depending on the model and rice type.

6. Let the Rice Rest

Once the rice cooker signals that the cooking process is complete, don't open the lid immediately. Allow the rice to rest with the lid on for an additional 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to blend further and the rice to absorb any remaining moisture, providing you with perfectly cooked and flavorful butter rice.

7. Fluff and Serve

When the resting period is over, open the rice cooker lid and use a rice paddle or fork to fluff the rice gently. This step ensures that the grains are separated and the butter is evenly distributed. If you've chopped herbs set aside, now is the time to fold them in for an added layer of flavor and a burst of color. Serve the butter rice hot, and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Butter Rice Every Time

Learning how to cook butter rice in rice cooker is just the beginning. Here are a few tips that will help you perfect this dish every time:

Use high-quality rice: The type and quality of rice you use can significantly impact the final result. Jasmine and basmati rice are excellent choices for their fragrant aroma and fluffy texture.
Rinse thoroughly: Make sure to rinse the rice until the water runs clear to remove any excess starch. This step is crucial for ensuring that the rice has a light and fluffy texture.
Measure accurately: Always use precise measurements for both the rice and water. Inaccurate measurements can result in undercooked or mushy rice.
Dont skip the resting period: Letting the rice rest after cooking allows it to absorb any remaining moisture and enhances the flavors.
Add herbs and spices: Feel free to experiment with adding different herbs or spices to your butter rice to suit your taste preferences. Garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of saffron can add an extra dimension of flavor.

Pairing Suggestions for Butter Rice

Butter rice is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are a few ideas:

Grilled or roasted meats: Butter rice makes a wonderful side dish for grilled chicken, steak, or pork chops. The rich and creamy texture of the rice complements the smoky flavors of the meat.
Vegetarian dishes: If you're looking for a meat-free option, butter rice pairs beautifully with vegetarian dishes like grilled vegetables, tofu stir-fry, or lentil curry.
Seafood: Butter rice is also an excellent accompaniment to seafood dishes such as grilled shrimp, salmon, or a seafood paella.
Barbecue: For a classic cookout, serve butter rice alongside barbecued ribs or pulled pork. The creamy rice balances the bold and tangy flavors of the barbecue sauce.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know how to cook butter rice in rice cooker, you can enjoy this delicious and easy dish anytime you want. The simplicity and convenience of using a rice cooker make it a go-to option for both busy weeknights and casual gatherings. With a few essential ingredients and a rice cooker, you can create a comforting and flavorful side dish that everyone will love. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the delightful flavors of butter rice!