A warm, comforting twist on traditional rice, this Easy Peanut Butter Rice is a savory, spiced dish that’s both satisfying and simple to make. Fluffy long grain rice is simmered in a seasoned vegetable broth and soy sauce, then finished with creamy peanut butter for a nutty, rich finish. It’s perfect on its own or as a flavorful side dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe combines pantry staples into a hearty, flavorful dish that’s anything but ordinary. It’s easy to prepare, vegan-friendly, and loaded with bold flavor from spices like smoked paprika and cayenne, balanced by the smooth, earthy richness of peanut butter. Whether served hot or at room temperature, it’s versatile enough to accompany your favorite protein or stand strong on its own.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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2 cups uncooked long grain rice
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½ tablespoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon smoked paprika
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¼ teaspoon cayenne
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3 cups vegetable stock
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3 tablespoons soy sauce
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5 tablespoons peanut butter (preferably natural with just peanuts and oil)
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Salt to taste
Directions
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Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well to prevent mushy rice.
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In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne. Stir to coat the rice evenly with the spices.
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Add the vegetable stock and soy sauce to the pan, stir, and cover with a tight-fitting lid.
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Bring the mixture to a lively simmer over high heat. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it cook undisturbed for 13 minutes.
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After 13 minutes, remove the pan from heat and allow the rice to steam with the lid on for an additional 10 minutes.
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Fluff the rice with a fork, then stir in the peanut butter until every grain is coated.
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Taste and add salt as needed, depending on how salty your stock and soy sauce are.
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Serve hot, warm, or at room temperature.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 4 servings.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 13 minutes
Additional time (steaming): 10 minutes
Total time: 28 minutes
Variations
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Spicy Kick: Add extra cayenne or a splash of hot sauce for more heat.
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Nut-Free Version: Substitute with sunflower seed butter for an allergy-friendly option.
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Protein Boost: Stir in cooked chickpeas, tofu, or shredded chicken.
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Coconut Twist: Replace half the vegetable stock with coconut milk for a creamier, tropical flavor.
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Herby Note: Finish with chopped cilantro or green onions for freshness.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To reheat, warm in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or vegetable stock to loosen the texture.
FAQs
How can I keep the rice from getting mushy?
Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch, and follow the cook time and steaming instructions closely. This ensures fluffy, separated grains.
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes, but the cook time and liquid amounts will need to be adjusted. Brown rice generally takes longer to cook and requires more liquid.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
As long as you use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, this recipe can be gluten-free.
What type of peanut butter works best?
Natural peanut butter made with just peanuts and oil is best. Avoid sugary or heavily processed varieties for optimal flavor and texture.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely. Sautéed spinach, steamed broccoli, or stir-fried bell peppers make great additions.
Can this be served cold?
Yes, this rice tastes great at room temperature or chilled, making it perfect for meal prep or picnics.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply scale up the ingredients proportionally and use a larger pot to ensure even cooking.
What can I serve with peanut butter rice?
It pairs well with sautéed greens, grilled tofu, roasted chicken, or a fresh cucumber salad.
Can I make this in a rice cooker?
Yes. Add all the ingredients except peanut butter and salt to the rice cooker. Cook as usual, then stir in peanut butter and salt at the end.
Does the peanut butter flavor overpower the dish?
Not at all. It adds richness and depth without overwhelming the spices or savory base.
Conclusion
Easy Peanut Butter Rice is a unique, flavorful dish that combines everyday ingredients into something truly special. Whether you’re looking for a hearty side, a meatless main, or a quick lunch option, this recipe delivers with bold taste and simple prep. Try it once, and you’ll find it becoming a staple in your kitchen.
Print
Easy Peanut Butter Rice
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
A savory, spiced rice dish infused with creamy peanut butter, smoked paprika, and soy sauce, offering a warm and comforting vegan meal or side dish
Ingredients
2 cups uncooked long grain rice
½ tablespoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ teaspoon cayenne
3 cups vegetable stock
3 tablespoons soy sauce
5 tablespoons peanut butter (preferably natural with just peanuts and oil)
Salt to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne. Stir to coat evenly.
- Add the vegetable stock and soy sauce to the pan, stir, and cover with a tight-fitting lid.
- Bring to a lively simmer over high heat. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and cook undisturbed for 13 minutes.
- Remove the pan from heat and let the rice steam with the lid on for an additional 10 minutes.
- Fluff the rice with a fork, then stir in the peanut butter until well coated.
- Taste and add salt as needed.
- Serve hot, warm, or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use natural peanut butter for best flavor and texture.
- Can be served hot, warm, or cold.
- Adjust cayenne to taste for more or less heat.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Reheat with a splash of water or vegetable stock to loosen texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
