This broccoli rice recipe is a delicious way to add veggies to your meals—and it’s perfect for using up leftover rice. Light, flavorful, and ready in minutes, this broccoli rice is a simple go-to when you want to pack more greens onto your plate without spending extra time in the kitchen.
My discovery of broccoli rice
Broccoli rice was a bit of a revelation for me the first time I made it. It completely changed how I thought about combining vegetables with grains.
Instead of preparing rice and vegetables separately, I realized I could bring them together into one simple, flavorful dish.
It’s especially handy when you have leftover rice waiting in the fridge. A quick chop of broccoli and a toss in the pan, and you have a healthy, satisfying side (or even a main dish) ready to go.
Free eBook!
Get your FREE cookbook!
Download this Happy Eater Cookbook for simple, mouthwatering recipes that make healthy eating easy and enjoyable.
Broccoli rice health benefits
Broccoli is one of those powerhouse veggies you can feel good about adding to your meals. Here’s why:
- Heart Healthy: May help lower cholesterol and support heart health.
- Rich in Fiber: Supports digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
- Immune-Boosting: Loaded with vitamin C and other immune-supportive nutrients.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Contains antioxidants and compounds like sulforaphane that help reduce inflammation.
Yes! Frozen broccoli works well for this recipe. Just thaw it first and pat it dry with a paper towel to avoid extra moisture in the pan.
Not at all. You can simply chop the broccoli finely by hand. A food processor makes it quicker, but a good knife will do the job just as well.
This recipe is very flexible—you can use white rice, brown rice, jasmine, basmati, or even quinoa. Leftover rice from the fridge works especially well because it holds its shape better.
Broccoli rice pairing
Broccoli rice pairs wonderfully with:
- Stir-fries
- Curries
- Lentil dishes
Enjoy this broccoli rice
This broccoli rice recipe is one of those little kitchen hacks that makes healthy eating feel effortless.
Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish or a light base for your favorite mains, this broccoli rice is an easy way to enjoy more greens without the extra fuss.
If you’re a fan rice dishes, be sure to try my vibrant Lemon Rice with Turmeric and Cashews or this delicious Cauliflower Rice.
Recipe for Broccoli Rice
Helpful Kitchen Tools:
Ingredients
To cook the rice
- 1 cup basmati rice, (or Jasmine)
- 1 ¾ cups water
- pinch salt
To finish the broccoli rice
- 2 teaspoon ghee, or vegetable oil
- pinch asafetida, (optional)
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 2 cups broccoli, washed and separated into florets
- 1 tablespoon water
- ½ teaspoon Himalayan pink salt, or to taste
- ½ lemon, freshly squeezed
Instructions
- Cook the rice separately, or make this recipe using leftover cooked rice. To cook the rice, cover the rice with cold water and rinse once, add washed rice to a pot, add cooking water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to very low and cover. Set a timer for 12 minutes. Turn off the heat and let stand until needed.
- Heat a large skillet on medium heat. Add ghee, optional asafetida, and turmeric powder, and sizzle the spices for 20-30 seconds until you can smell the aroma.
- Add the broccoli, along with a tablespoon of water, and the salt. Mix well to evenly combine. Cover, and cook for 3-5 minutes until the broccoli is soft and just cooked.
- Add cooked rice into the skillet mix well using two spoons. Continue to cook until the rice is thoroughly hot. Turn off the heat, squeeze in the lemon. Enjoy!
Notes
Vegetable substitutions
You can easily switch up the broccoli in this recipe with your favorite vegetable, such as Brussel sprouts, cauliflower, carrots, or your favorite leafy greens.Spice substitutions
If you want to substitute or reduce the turmeric, substitute with coriander, fennel, cumin, etc.Nutrition
Other recipes you may enjoy
Tried this recipe? We’d love your review!
Tap the stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ and leave a quick comment to share your thoughts.
Don’t forget to tag @buttered.veg or use #butteredveg when you share your photos—we love seeing what you make!
Follow along on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for more Buttered Veg lifestyle content.
Thanks for visiting Buttered Veg!
Bobbie
Super yummy and sooo balancing on this very windy day. Thank you
Andrea
Hi again Bobbie,
I do love the comfort aspect of this recipe as well. You can always change up the vegetables in this dish to make it your own. Happy cooking!