Elevate Your Rice with Simple Hotel Secrets
Cooking rice may seem straightforward, but there’s a trick hotels and restaurants use to make it taste exceptional: they cook rice in broth instead of plain water. By swapping water with chicken, vegetable, or beef broth, you instantly add layers of savory depth and richness. This small change transforms ordinary rice into a flavorful side dish that complements any meal beautifully.

Add Butter, Oil, and Aromatics for Extra Flavor
Another key to restaurant-quality rice is adding a bit of butter or olive oil. Not only does this enhance the rice’s texture, but it also keeps the grains separated and gives a silky finish. Sautéing aromatics like garlic, onions, or shallots in the butter before cooking elevates the rice even more, filling your kitchen with a delicious aroma and infusing the rice with incredible flavor.

Enhance with Seasonings and Rinse for Perfect Texture
A pinch of salt or a few select spices, like bay leaves or a cinnamon stick, can make all the difference, bringing unique notes to your rice. For a fluffy, non-sticky texture, hotels and restaurants rinse their rice before cooking. This removes excess starch, ensuring that every grain stays light and separate.

The Final Step: Steam to Perfection
After cooking, let the rice steam for a few minutes off the heat. This extra step allows the rice to absorb any remaining moisture, resulting in fluffy, well-cooked grains. With these easy tips—using broth, butter, aromatics, spices, and a bit of patience—you can achieve restaurant-quality rice that’s rich in flavor and perfect for any occasion. Give it a try, and taste the difference for yourself!