This golden garlic rice is fluffy, tender, vibrant, and packed with aromatic garlic flavor—a delicious, versatile vegan side dish. Stovetop, Instant Pot, and Rice Cooker methods included!
In a large, heavy-bottomed stock pot, combine oil, achiote powder and chopped garlic. Saute over medium heat for about one minute, until garlic has softened (but is not browning).
Add uncooked rice to the pot. Stir until rice is evenly coated with oil.
Add vegetable broth and orange zest (if using) to the pot. Stir well. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover with lid and simmer for 20-25 minutes, until rice is tender and has absorbed all the broth.
Remove the pot from heat. Leaving the lid in place, allow rice to steam in the pot for 5 minutes. Remove the lid and fluff with a fork.
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Notes
Rinse the rice well: It's impossible to get the water running perfectly clear, but give it a good rinse, swishing it with your hand, to remove excess starch.
Don't peek: It's important to keep the lid on while cooking the garlic rice, so it cooks properly and steams for fluffy results. We recommend using a pan with a clear lid to monitor its process.
Leave it to steam: This will help evaporate the leftover liquid in the pan for super fluffy yellow garlic rice.