Texas Roadhouse rice recipe is a rich, creamy side dish that pairs well with many of the restaurant’s signature dishes, from steaks to chicken. This one gives you long-grain white rice simmered in a rich, buttery broth, seasoned with some combination of spices that gives it a mildly smoky, savoury flavour. Some versions use butter, chicken broth and a proprietary seasoning mix, which give it a distinctive flavour profile.
Texas Roadhouse rice has a creamy consistency, which is what makes it so different from other fried rice, which you get from integrating heavy cream or sour cream into the mixture. Fingers crossed, the rice cooks into a comforting texture with a whisper of richness, making it a beloved side dish to everything from ribs to rolls. Now that July 4 is over, though, that simple recipe, yet so indulgent, has become a signature item; many fans have been making it at home for family dinners, too.
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Origins of Texas Roadhouse Rice Recipe
One American chain that you see a lot is Texas Roadhouse. In addition to its signature rolls, one of the most iconic sides is what the restaurant calls the Texas Roadhouse Rice, made out of steamed rice seasoned with buttery, savory seasoning.
Though this rice dish is inextricably concerned with the restaurant chain itself, the seasoned rice concept was likely inspired by several regional influences, including classic Tex-Mex and Southern-style dishes where rice is often complemented by robust, savory flavor profiles — butter, garlic and herbs. The dish became a mainstay at Texas Roadhouse for its ability to cut through the Texas-sized portions of steak, ribs and chicken.
Why Homemade Texas Roadhouse Rice is a Perfect Idea
There are a couple of reasons why making Texas Roadhouse Rice at home is such a great idea. First, it enables you to have that restaurant-quality rich and savory flavor at home without having to get out and eat out. When you make this rice dish in your kitchen, you get to choose the ingredients so you can season it to your liking or dietary preference.
Do-it-yourself rice is also less expensive than restaurant dining and can be made to include other additives like vegetables, meats, or spices. You can make Texas Roadhouse Rice from home, and contrary to popular perception, it is pretty easy to make and only requires a few simple ingredients (rice, butter, garlic and seasoning)
Keys for a Better Texas Roadhouse Rice Recipe
To elevate your homemade Texas Roadhouse Rice, focus on these key tips:
- Rice Quality: Please use long-grain white rice like Jasmine or Basmati rice for even cooking and fluffy rice. Don’t buy sticky, short-grain rice, which can change the texture of the dish.
- Seasoning: The secret of Texas Roadhouse Rice is the delicious seasoning. A blend of butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt and a pinch of pepper produces that unique flavor. Remember to add the parsley for garnish and flavor.
- Butter: Butter is key to the rich, indulgent taste. You can use olive oil instead of butter or a low-fat butter substitute for a healthier version.
- Cooking Technique: Either use a rice cooker or follow stovetop cooking instructions with proper timing so the rice doesn’t become too soft or mushy, providing excellent texture.
- Add-ins: While the traditional Texas Roadhouse Rice is simple, you can experiment with variations by adding cooked vegetables, such as peas or carrots, or even cooked chicken for added protein.
Health Benefits of Texas Roadhouse Rice
Texas Roadhouse Rice, though not the first dish that comes to mind, learning about its nutritional content and potential health benefits can go a long way toward making this a guilt-free food choice! Here’s what to know about nachos’ health potential — particularly when you make them at home:
| Health Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Rich in Carbohydrates | Rice is a great source of energy, providing essential carbohydrates that fuel the body. |
| Provides Fiber | Depending on the type of rice used (e.g., brown rice), this dish can provide fiber, aiding digestion and promoting heart health. |
| Customizable Ingredients | You can add vegetables or lean proteins to the dish, boosting its vitamin and nutrient content. |
| Source of Vitamins | Rice contains small amounts of essential vitamins like B vitamins, which support metabolism and overall health. |
| Healthy Fats (with Substitution) | Using olive oil or avocado oil instead of butter can introduce healthier fats into the dish. |
Is Texas Roadhouse Rice Helpful for Weight Loss?
The traditional Texas Roadhouse Rice is a high-calorie side dish from its butter and seasoning. Rice is a relatively low-calorie food on its own, but when butter is added, it can increase the calorie content by a great deal. This is probably not the best option in bulk for people who want to lose weight. But you can lighten it up with some smart swaps that still scratch the itch:
- Use Less Butter: Decrease the quantity of butter used; instead, try replacing it with healthy oils such as olive oil or avocado oil.
- Choose Brown rice: Brown rice is high in fiber, which comes to the rescue when it comes to feeling satiated for a longer time, thus preventing weight gain and promoting weight loss.
- Serve in Smaller Portions: Rather than taking a large serving size for rice, serve a smaller portion of rice and fill your plate with more significant portions of fiber-rich veggies or lean proteins instead.
- Add Veggies: By allowing it to cook with nutrient-dense vegetables such as spinach, carrots, or peas, you can bulk up the rice in volume and nutritional value, which will aid in satiety while helping manage caloric intake.
While Texas Roadhouse Rice on its own isn’t a weight-loss food, you can make adjustments to suit your dietary goals.
Texas Roadhouse Rice Recipe From OoohDelish!
Texas Roadhouse Rice Recipe
Equipment
- Medium saucepan or rice cooker
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Knife (if adding vegetables)
- Small saucepan (for melting butter)
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice e.g., Jasmine or Basmati
- 3 cups water or chicken broth for extra flavor
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter or olive oil for a lighter option
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Rice:
- This will help the rice lose some of its starch, so rinse it under cold water.
- Bring 3 cups of water (or chicken broth) to boil in a medium saucepan. Stir in the rice and a pinch of salt.
- Lower the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and water is absorbed. Remove from heat, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
Prepare the Seasoning:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle on the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook until incorporated and fragrant (1-2 minutes).
Wipe with the Seasoning:
- Add the seasoning mixture on top of the cooked rice. Mix well until the rice is evenly coated with the buttery seasoning.
Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot alongside your favorite main dish.
Notes
You can substitute brown rice for a higher-fiber option.
For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper for a slight kick.
If you’d like to incorporate vegetables, stir in some cooked peas, carrots, or corn.
Other Considerations
- Complementing Other Dishes: Texas Roadhouse Rice is typically served alongside various protein-based dishes like steaks, chicken, or shrimp. This means it’s a versatile side dish that can go with many meals.
- Taste and Texture: Texas Roadhouse Rice is so popular because of how buttery and savory the flavor is and how fluffy the texture is. Homemade, this dish can be just as soothing as the one from the restaurant, providing warmth and satisfaction.
- Family Friendly: Texas Roadhouse Rice is a favorite amongst both kids and adults. Its mellow, savory flavor makes it a straightforward component of family meals, and the rudimentary ingredients mean it can be easily adapted for picky eaters.
- Meal prep-friendly: You can make this rice ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a few days, which is great for meal prepping. Simply reheat when needed for a simple and delicious side.
To sum it up, Texas Roadhouse Rice is a tasty and versatile dish that can be made at home using just a few ingredients. With some changes to make as you please, you will have a delicious, comforting meal that can also align with your nutritional target. Whether you are preparing rice for a family meal or attempting to have a restaurant-style dish at home, this rice is the perfect companion to any meal.
References
Rice 101: Nutrition facts and health effects
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