Stir in a tablespoon of butter or olive oil after cooking. This adds a luxurious finish and prevents the rice from sticking.
Mix in Vegetables or Proteins:
Hotels often add diced vegetables (like carrots, peas, or bell peppers) or proteins (like shrimp or chicken) while the rice cooks for added flavor and texture.
Use Saffron or Turmeric:
Add a pinch of saffron or turmeric to the water for a golden hue and a subtle, earthy flavor.
Finish with Fresh Herbs:
Once cooked, fluff the rice and mix in chopped fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill for a burst of freshness.
Bonus Hotel Trick
For extra richness, chefs sometimes stir in a dollop of cream cheese, mascarpone, or even a splash of wine (for risotto-style rice) to elevate the final texture and flavor.
By following these tips, your rice will be anything but boring—it’ll be a showstopper dish worthy of a hotel menu!
