Tarragon Rice

Tarragon Rice Recipe - Delicious Butter Rice with Chicken Bouillon and Tarragon

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 5 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Tarragon rice is a flavorful and aromatic side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. The combination of butter, chicken bouillon, tarragon, and lemon juice creates a savory and tangy flavor profile that complements the nuttiness of the rice.

History

Tarragon rice is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for generations. Tarragon, a popular herb in French cuisine, adds a unique and refreshing flavor to the rice, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts.

Ingredients

2 tbsp butter or margarine
2 tsp chicken bouillon granules
1 tsp tarragon
0.13 to 0.25 tsp ground black pepper
1 tbsp lemon juice
3 cups hot cooked rice

How to prepare

In a small saucepan, combine butter, bouillon granules, tarragon, pepper, and lemon juice. Heat the mixture.
Pour the heated mixture over the rice and toss lightly.
Serve the rice with baked, broiled, or fried chicken.

Variations

Add diced vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas to the rice for added texture and flavor.
Substitute the margarine with olive oil for a healthier alternative.
Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a nuttier and more nutritious option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use hot cooked rice for this recipe to ensure that the flavors of the butter and seasonings are absorbed properly.

- Adjust the amount of tarragon and black pepper to suit your personal taste preferences.

- For a richer flavor, you can use chicken broth instead of chicken bouillon granules.

Serving Suggestions

Tarragon rice pairs well with baked, broiled, or fried chicken. You can also serve it alongside grilled fish or roasted vegetables for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making tarragon rice is to heat the butter, bouillon, tarragon, pepper, and lemon juice mixture before pouring it over the rice. This helps to infuse the flavors into the rice and create a delicious dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have chicken bouillon granules, you can use chicken broth or stock as a substitute. You can also use fresh tarragon instead of dried tarragon for a more intense flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the tarragon butter mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it. Simply reheat the mixture before tossing it with the hot cooked rice.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the tarragon rice with fresh tarragon leaves or lemon zest for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve it in a decorative bowl or on a platter for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Tarragon rice pairs well with a variety of main courses, including chicken, fish, and vegetables. You can also serve it alongside a crisp green salad or a creamy soup for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover tarragon rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the rice until heated through, or reheat it in a saucepan on the stovetop.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of tarragon rice contains approximately 200 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie side dish option.

Carbohydrates

The carbohydrates in this recipe primarily come from the rice, providing a good source of energy for your body.

Fats

The margarine used in this recipe adds a small amount of fat, which helps to enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.

Proteins

While this dish is not high in protein, you can pair it with a protein-rich main course to create a balanced meal.

Vitamins and minerals

Tarragon is a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as minerals like iron and calcium. These nutrients can help support overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (margarine) and may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies. Be sure to check for any other allergens in the ingredients used.

Summary

Tarragon rice is a flavorful side dish that provides a good source of carbohydrates and a moderate amount of fats. Pair it with a protein-rich main course and a variety of vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Summary

Tarragon rice is a delicious and versatile side dish that is easy to make and pairs well with a variety of main courses. With its savory and tangy flavor profile, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Tarragon Rice. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl living in the countryside. My family owned a small farm where we grew all sorts of herbs and vegetables. Tarragon was one of my favorite herbs to work with, as its delicate flavor added a unique touch to any dish.

One day, while out in the fields harvesting tarragon, I came across an old woman who was also picking the herb. She had a kind smile and a twinkle in her eye, and I could tell right away that she was a woman who knew her way around a kitchen. We struck up a conversation, and before I knew it, she was sharing her recipe for Tarragon Rice with me.

The old woman explained that Tarragon Rice was a dish that had been passed down through generations in her family. It was a simple yet delicious recipe that showcased the fresh, aromatic flavor of the tarragon. She showed me how to cook the rice to perfection, how to infuse it with the essence of the herb, and how to finish it off with a sprinkling of toasted almonds for crunch.

I was mesmerized by her knowledge and passion for cooking, and I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make Tarragon Rice for myself. I begged her to teach me, and she graciously agreed. We spent the entire afternoon in her cozy kitchen, chopping, stirring, and tasting until we had created a dish that was worthy of her family's legacy.

From that day on, Tarragon Rice became a staple in my own kitchen. I would make it for my family and friends, always receiving rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I loved the way the tarragon infused the rice with its distinctive flavor, turning a simple dish into something truly special.

Over the years, I have continued to make Tarragon Rice, adapting the recipe to suit my own tastes and preferences. Sometimes I add a squeeze of lemon for brightness, or a handful of peas for color. But no matter how I tweak it, the essence of the dish always remains the same - a celebration of the herb that first inspired me to cook.

I have shared the recipe for Tarragon Rice with many people over the years, passing on the knowledge and tradition that was given to me by that kind old woman in the fields. Each time I make it, I am reminded of her and the joy that cooking can bring.

So here it is, my recipe for Tarragon Rice, a dish that holds a special place in my heart and on my table. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do, and that it brings you as much happiness and satisfaction as it has brought me over the years. Bon appétit!