When it comes to cooking, there are few dishes as versatile and satisfying as a perfectly cooked pot of rice. Whether you’re serving it alongside your favorite protein or using it as the base for a hearty casserole, rice is a staple ingredient that never goes out of style. And with its incredible ability to soak up flavors, it’s no wonder why there are countless variations on this classic dish.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 different and delicious rice recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From savory and spicy dishes like Spicy Kimchi Fried Rice and Cajun Dirty Rice with Sausage, to sweet and indulgent options like Sticky Mango Coconut Rice and Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, we’ve got you covered for any occasion or taste bud.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Fried Rice
A flavorful twist on classic fried rice, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with garlic butter and a medley of vegetables for a mouthwatering meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons garlic butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked shrimp; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in the softened garlic butter until well combined.
6. Add the cooked rice to the skillet or wok, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
7. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is heated through and slightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Coconut Lime Jasmine Rice
This fragrant and flavorful rice dish is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite stir-fries or grilled meats. The combination of coconut milk, fresh lime juice, and jasmine rice creates a creamy and aromatic side that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked jasmine rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the jasmine rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes or until lightly toasted.
3. Add the coconut milk, lime juice, and salt. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the unsweetened shredded coconut.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spicy Kimchi Fried Rice
Get ready to spice up your meal with this bold and flavorful Korean-inspired dish! Spicy Kimchi Fried Rice combines the pungency of kimchi with the comfort of fried rice, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or quick lunch solution.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped kimchi and cook, stirring frequently, until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in the cooked rice, Gochujang, salt, and pepper.
6. Cook, stirring constantly, until the rice is well combined with the kimchi mixture, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
9. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mediterranean Lemon Herb Rice
This flavorful side dish combines the brightness of lemon with the warmth of herbs to create a perfect accompaniment to your favorite Mediterranean-inspired dishes. With its fluffy texture and aromatic flavors, this rice is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and rice to the saucepan. Stir to combine.
5. Add the water to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
7. Fluff with a fork and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe combines the simplicity of rice with the richness of cheese and the nutritious goodness of broccoli.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, broccoli, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in milk until smooth. Pour the milk mixture over the rice mixture and stir until combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
6. Remove the foil and bake an additional 5-10 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Thai Pineapple Fried Rice
A flavorful and colorful twist on traditional fried rice, this Thai-inspired dish combines the sweetness of pineapple with savory spices and a hint of heat. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add pineapple, red pepper flakes (if using), and cooked rice; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Season with soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mexican Cilantro Lime Rice
This flavorful rice dish is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite Mexican-inspired meals. Fresh cilantro and lime juice add a bright and zesty twist to this classic side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes or until lightly toasted.
3. Add the water to the saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
4. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork. Stir in the chopped cilantro and lime juice. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl
Get ready to devour a flavorful and filling bowl of Teriyaki chicken, savory rice, and fresh vegetables!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green beans)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions with 2 cups of water.
2. In a separate pan, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add teriyaki sauce and grated ginger to the chicken; stir to coat. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Prepare mixed vegetables according to package instructions (steaming or sautéing).
5. Assemble bowls by placing cooked rice at the bottom, followed by teriyaki chicken, and finished with a spoonful of mixed vegetables.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetable Biryani with Basmati Rice
A flavorful and aromatic Indian-inspired rice dish packed with a medley of colorful vegetables, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 potato, peeled and diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh sieve until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrot, bell pepper, and potato. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add 2 cups of water to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
5. Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan, stir well, cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spanish Saffron Rice with Chorizo
This flavorful side dish combines the rich aroma of saffron with the spicy kick of chorizo, making it a perfect accompaniment to your favorite Spanish dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 slices chorizo, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth and saffron mixture in a medium saucepan over high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the onion-garlic mixture.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
6. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the sliced chorizo and cook until crispy.
7. Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Japanese Onigiri Rice Balls
Onigiri rice balls are a classic Japanese snack that’s easy to make and fun to eat. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these tasty treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt, to taste
– Fillings of your choice (e.g., salmon, tuna, pickled plum, boiled egg, or shredded daikon)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together the cooked rice and water until well combined.
2. Add salt to taste, then knead the mixture with wet hands until it forms a sticky dough.
3. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal pieces, depending on desired size.
4. Shape each piece into a triangle or oval shape by folding and pressing the edges together.
5. Place your chosen filling in the center of each onigiri, then fold the edges over to seal.
6. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to a day.
Cooking Time: None! Onigiri are best served fresh, but they can be stored for later enjoyment.
Cajun Dirty Rice with Sausage
Dirty rice, a staple of Louisiana cuisine, gets a boost from spicy sausage and savory seasonings. This recipe combines the two for a flavorful and filling dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille or kielbasa), sliced
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in the Cajun seasoning and cooked rice.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Wild Mushroom Risotto
Discover the rich flavors of the forest with this hearty Wild Mushroom Risotto recipe. This creamy dish is perfect for a cozy evening in, and can be customized to your favorite mushroom varieties.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, cremini, and oyster), cleaned and sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add white wine and cook until absorbed, about 2 minutes.
6. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring constantly and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
7. Finish with butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Sticky Mango Coconut Rice
This sweet and savory rice dish is perfect for a tropical-inspired meal or as a side dish for your favorite grilled meats or seafood. With the natural sweetness of mango and coconut, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
3. While the rice is cooking, melt the coconut oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the diced mango and cook for 2-3 minutes or until caramelized.
4. Stir in the honey and shredded coconut. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in the mango-coconut mixture. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Lemon Rice with Feta
This classic Greek recipe combines the brightness of lemon zest with the creaminess of feta cheese, all wrapped up in a flavorful rice dish. Perfect as a side or light lunch, this simple yet satisfying recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 3 cups of water.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
5. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and stir in the oil mixture.
6. Top with crumbled feta cheese and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Indian Jeera Rice with Peas
This classic Indian recipe combines the simplicity of cooked rice with the aromatic flavors of jeera (cumin) and sweet peas. Perfect as a side dish or a base for other curries, this jeera rice is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin (jeera)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and sauté until fragrant (10 seconds).
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent (2-3 minutes).
4. Add the peas, salt, and drained rice to the saucepan. Stir well.
5. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
6. Turn off heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chinese Egg Fried Rice
Egg fried rice is a staple Chinese dish that’s quick, easy, and delicious. This recipe combines cooked rice with scrambled eggs, vegetables, and seasonings for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 eggs
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Push the cooked rice to one side of the pan. Crack the eggs into the other side and scramble them until cooked through.
3. Mix the eggs with the rice.
4. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and mixed vegetables to the pan. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Add soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir-fry everything together for another minute.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Persian Jeweled Rice with Pistachios
This vibrant and aromatic rice dish is a staple of Persian cuisine, adorned with a rainbow of saffron-infused ingredients and crunchy pistachios. A perfect accompaniment to grilled meats or as a main course on its own.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup toasted pistachios, chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in cold water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the soaked saffron and its liquid with 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add the drained rice to the saucepan and stir to combine. Cover and cook on low for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
4. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and mix in chopped parsley, scallions, and pistachios. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Black Bean and Rice Stuffed Peppers
Add a pop of color to your table with these flavorful stuffed peppers! This recipe combines the comforting warmth of rice and beans with the crunch of fresh bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked black beans, warmed
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers, removing seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, combine black beans, rice, onion, garlic, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pepper with the bean-rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Rice Pilaf
Elevate your meals with this flavorful and aromatic rice pilaf infused with garlic and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until water is absorbed and rice is tender.
5. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in Parmesan cheese and salt to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 20 flavorful rice recipes! From savory dishes like Garlic Butter Shrimp Fried Rice and Spicy Kimchi Fried Rice, to sweet treats like Sticky Mango Coconut Rice and Persian Jeweled Rice with Pistachios, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for international flavors or classic comfort food, this collection has got you covered. With recipes ranging from simple and quick to elaborate and impressive, you’ll find inspiration for your next meal, snack, or special occasion.
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