Sautéing the rice. Sauté the onions slowly in the butter for several minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the rice and sauté, slowly stirring, for several minutes more until the grains, which first become translucent, turn a milky white. This step cooks the starchy coating and prevents the grains from sticking.

Braising. If you are using vermouth, stir it in now and let it boil down for a moment. Blend in the chicken stock, correct seasoning, and add the bay leaf or herb bouquet. Bring to the simmer, stir once thoroughly, then cover tightly and proceed —regulating heat so that the rice cooks at the slow simmer, slight movement and slow bubbling -without stirring again for 12 to 15 minutes, until almost tender—faintly al dente. Cover the pan and set aside for several minutes, while the rice finishes cooking.

Finishing the rice. While still warm, remove the bay leaf or herb bouquet, fluff the rice with a fork, and correct seasoning.