What is happening when I cook rice with chicken broth instead of water?

 

By using a broth or stock to cook rice instead of water, flavor, protein, collagen, amino acids, and minerals are all added to the dish.

Years ago, I stopped at a favorite family-owned restaurant outside of Chicago and ordered lunch. The rice was terrific, so I asked the waiter how it was prepared. The waiter said, “the rice is cooked with chicken broth.”

I’ve been using chicken stock or broth instead of water to cook my rice when I can ever since. What is happening? You are adding significant and noticeable flavor to the rice in addition to helpful nutrients.