Cooking Garlic Butter Rice is a straightforward process, but attention to detail is key to achieving the perfect texture and flavor. Follow these steps to create a delightful dish:

1. Rinse the Rice:
   • Place the rice in a fine mesh sieve and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming sticky.
2. Melt the Butter:
   • In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Be cautious not to burn it; the butter should be golden and fragrant.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
   • Add the minced garlic to the melted butter. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and lightly browned. Stir frequently to avoid burning.
4. Add the Rice:
   • Incorporate the rinsed rice into the saucepan, stirring well to coat the grains with the butter and garlic mixture.
5. Pour in the Broth:
   • Add the chicken or vegetable broth, followed by a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Bring to a Boil:
   • Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15-18 minutes until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
7. Fluff the Rice:
   • Once cooked, remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit for about 5 minutes. Use a fork to gently fluff the rice, releasing the steam and separating the grains.
8. Garnish and Serve:
   • Optionally, stir in the lemon zest and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.