Hello and welcome to Rice Cookers 101! Are you looking for a yummy and healthy side dish that’s simple to make? Look no further than this delicious garlic carrot rice. Bursting with flavor and loaded with nutrients, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen. So let’s get cooking! We’ve made this garlic carrot rice recipe easy to follow 👨‍🍳. If you’re looking for our favorite rice cookers to make this recipe, check out our list of top rice cookers here.

garlic carrot rice ingredients

Ingredients

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium carrot, grated
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice thoroughly, then bring water to a boil in a medium-sized pot. Add rice and stir gently. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed (about 18-20 minutes).
  2. While the rice is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  4. Add grated carrot to the skillet and cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the carrot is tender and slightly browned.
  5. Once rice is done, remove from heat and let sit for 5-10 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
  6. Add the cooked garlic and carrot to the rice, along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired, and serve hot.

garlic carrot rice

How long does garlic carrot rice last in the fridge?

Garlic carrot rice can be stored in the fridge for up to four days after cooking. It is essential to store it properly in an airtight container to avoid spoilage. When reheating the rice, it is recommended to add a little water or broth and cover it with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out. However, it is best to consume the rice within two days of cooking for optimal freshness and flavor. It is not advisable to freeze leftover rice as it can significantly affect its texture and taste.

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Low calorie garlic carrot rice recipe substitutions

To make this Garlic Carrot Rice recipe lower in calories, we can make a few substitutions. Firstly, we can replace the long-grain white rice with a lower calorie option such as brown rice, quinoa or cauliflower rice. Secondly, we can reduce the amount of olive oil used in the recipe or replace it with a calorie-free cooking spray. Thirdly, instead of using salt to season the dish, we can use flavorful herbs and spices like garlic powder, paprika, cumin, or coriander. Finally, we can add more veggies to the dish to increase the volume and nutrient content while keeping it low in calories. By making these simple substitutions, we can enjoy a delicious and nutritious Garlic Carrot Rice dish with fewer calories and a lower impact on our waistline.

What to serve with a garlic carrot rice?

Garlic carrot rice is a tasty dish that can be served as a side or as a main course. To enhance its flavor, it pairs well with dishes that have an Asian or Mediterranean flair. Some options include grilled chicken or fish, stir-fried vegetables, roasted or grilled tofu, and curries. If you’re looking to keep the dish vegetarian, it can be served with a side salad or some roasted vegetables. Additionally, a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or cilantro can add a burst of freshness to the dish.

Whats the best sauce for a garlic carrot rice?

One great sauce for garlic carrot rice is a simple lemon garlic sauce. You can make this by combining minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Mix it well and drizzle it over the cooked rice and carrots. The tangy flavor of the lemon juice pairs perfectly with the garlic and complements the sweetness of the carrots. Plus, it’s a light and healthy sauce that won’t overpower the natural flavors of the dish.

Garlic carrot rice health benefits

Garlic carrot rice has a number of potential health benefits. Garlic has been shown to have antibacterial and antiviral properties, which can help to support immune function. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, which is important for eye health, and also contain fiber which can aid in digestion and satiety. Additionally, brown rice, which is often used in this recipe, is a whole grain and provides complex carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamins and minerals. Overall, this dish can be a nutritious and flavorful addition to a balanced diet. If you’re looking for an even healthier recipe, dishes featuring whole grains, lean proteins, and plenty of vegetables and fruits would be ideal. Some options could include baked salmon with roasted vegetables, black bean chili with quinoa, or lentil soup with a side salad.

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