Herbed Rice Mix

Name: Herbed Rice Mix
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 1 serving per batch.
Ingredients: 1 package (3 pounds) long grain rice; 2 cups dried celery flakes; 2/3 cup dried minced onion; 1/2 cup dried parsley flakes; 2 tablespoons minced chives; 1 tablespoon dried tarragon; 3 to 4 teaspoons salt; 2 teaspoons pepper; ADDITIONAL INGREDIENTS:; 2/3 cup water; 1 teaspoon butter

For Christmas gifts, Emily Chaney of Penobscot, Maine fills pint-size plastic zipper bags with her savory blend. "I include the cooking directions on a holly label," she says.

Ingredients

1 package (3 pounds) long grain rice
2 cups dried celery flakes
2/3 cup dried minced onion
1/2 cup dried parsley flakes
2 tablespoons minced chives
1 tablespoon dried tarragon
3 to 4 teaspoons salt
2 teaspoons pepper
ADDITIONAL INGREDIENTS:
2/3 cup water
1 teaspoon butter

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the first eight ingredients. Store in an airtight container. Yield: 40 batches (10 cups total).
To prepare one serving of rice: In a saucepan over medium heat, bring water and butter to a boil. Add 1/4 cup rice mixture. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 20 minutes. Remove from heat; let stand for 5 minutes or until liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.

Editor's Note: To prepare more than 1 serving, multiply the rice mix, water and butter by the total number of desired servings and cook as directed.