Instructions

1. Melt a pat or two of butter in a saucepan. You can also use an equivalent amount of olive or canola oil, or a few sprays of cooking oil spray. Choose a saucepan that is large enough to hold both the rice and the liquid, so you can toast the rice and cook it in the same pan.

2. Toss in brown rice and cook it for three to five minutes over medium heat, or until it has a nutty, toasted odor. Stir it occasionally so it doesn't burn. Add a little more fat if the pan seems dry and watch the rice carefully. If you cook it too long, it may take on a burnt, bitter flavor.

3. Pour water, chicken broth or vegetable stock over the toasted rice. Bring the liquid to a simmer and place a lid on the pan. Simmer over medium-low heat for 25 to 35 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.

4. Remove the rice from the heat and allow it to sit covered for five minutes before fluffing it with a fork.