Oven-Baked Aromatic Basmati Rice
Experience a delightful twist on traditional Basmati rice with this oven-baked version. Inspired by a fusion of Iranian and family cooking traditions, this dish brings the aromatic flavor of Basmati rice to life with rich chicken stock, sweet corn, and tender onions. Unlike typical fluffy rice, this preparation results in a deliciously 'al dente' texture, providing the perfect base for savory dishes like Tikka Masala. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, this recipe transforms Basmati rice into an irresistible dish.
6
Servings
204
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
olive oil
2 tablespoons (for greasing)
basmati rice
1 1/2 cups (rinsed)
water
1 cup (room temperature)
butter
2 tablespoons (cut into chunks)
oxo instant chicken bouillon
2 packets (or 4-6 tablespoons instant chicken stock)
onion
1/2 cup (chopped, can use pre-chopped frozen)
frozen corn
1 cup (no need to thaw)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking pan with olive oil to prevent sticking.
3
Evenly spread the rinsed basmati rice in the prepared baking pan.
4
Sprinkle the dry chicken stock evenly over the rice.
5
Carefully pour the water over the rice and stock mixture.
6
Scatter the chopped onion and frozen corn across the top and gently stir to evenly distribute.
7
Place the butter chunks at various locations over the mixture to ensure even melting during baking.
8
Cover tightly with aluminum foil to trap the steam and flavors.
9
Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes.
10
Stir every 10-15 minutes to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
11
Check for your desired level of doneness, aiming for an al dente finish. Adjust baking time as needed.
12
Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes if you desire a crispier top.
13
Serve warm, ideally with Tikka Masala or your favorite curry.
Nutrition Information
26.7g
Carbs
4.2g
Protein
0.8g
Fiber
483mg
Sodium
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Oven-Baked Aromatic Basmati Rice?
It is a flavorful rice dish inspired by Iranian and family traditions, baked in the oven with chicken stock, corn, and onions for a unique twist.
What is the texture of this rice dish?
Unlike typical fluffy rice, this preparation results in a delicious al dente texture that provides a sturdy base for savory dishes.
How long does it take to bake the rice?
The rice should be baked in a preheated oven for approximately 35 to 40 minutes.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius before baking.
What type of rice is recommended for this recipe?
This recipe specifically calls for 1.5 cups of rinsed basmati rice.
Should the basmati rice be rinsed?
Yes, the instructions specify using rinsed basmati rice to achieve the best results.
Can I use frozen onions for this recipe?
Yes, you can use either freshly chopped onions or pre-chopped frozen onions for convenience.
Do I need to thaw the frozen corn before adding it?
No, there is no need to thaw the frozen corn before scattering it over the rice mixture.
What size baking pan should I use?
A 9 x 13-inch baking pan is recommended for this recipe.
How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the pan?
Grease the pan with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and stir the rice every 10 to 15 minutes during the baking process.
What kind of chicken stock is used?
The recipe uses 2 packets of Oxo instant chicken bouillon or 4 to 6 tablespoons of instant chicken stock.
How much water is added to the rice?
Add 1 cup of room temperature water to the rice and stock mixture before baking.
Why is butter added to the recipe?
Butter chunks are placed over the mixture to ensure even melting and add richness to the rice.
Do I need to cover the rice while it bakes?
Yes, cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil to trap the steam and lock in the flavors.
How often should I stir the rice in the oven?
You should stir the rice every 10 to 15 minutes to ensure even cooking and to prevent sticking.
What is the benefit of stirring during baking?
Stirring helps the rice cook evenly and contributes to achieving the desired level of crispiness.
How can I get a crispier top on the rice?
Remove the aluminum foil for the final 5 minutes of baking if you prefer a crispier top layer.
What does al dente mean for this recipe?
It refers to rice that is cooked to be firm to the bite rather than soft or mushy.
What are the best dishes to pair with this rice?
It is ideally served with Tikka Masala or your favorite type of curry.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
How many calories are in a serving of this rice?
Each serving contains approximately 204 calories.
How much protein is in each serving?
Each serving provides about 4.2 grams of protein.
What is the carbohydrate content per serving?
There are 26.7 grams of carbohydrates in each serving.
Is there fiber in this rice dish?
Yes, each serving contains approximately 0.8 grams of fiber.
How much sodium is in the recipe?
Each serving contains 483 milligrams of sodium, largely from the chicken stock.
What culinary tradition inspired this dish?
The dish is inspired by Middle Eastern and Iranian cooking traditions combined with family style preparation.
Can I adjust the baking time?
Yes, you should check for your desired level of doneness and adjust the time as needed to reach an al dente finish.
Is olive oil essential for the recipe?
Olive oil is used to grease the pan, though other cooking oils or sprays could be used as a substitute.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
The recipe consists of 7 main ingredients: olive oil, basmati rice, water, butter, chicken bouillon, onion, and frozen corn.
How should I serve the rice?
It is best served warm as a base for savory curries or Middle Eastern inspired main courses.