Steamed rice – a staple in many cuisines around the world. It’s a simple yet versatile dish that can be elevated to suit any meal or celebration. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish, a flavorful base for your favorite stir-fry, or a creative way to use up leftovers, steamed rice is the perfect canvas. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering steamed rice recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen.
From classic pairings like garlic butter and coconut milk to innovative combinations featuring black beans, corn, and roasted vegetables, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab a pot of water, get creative with your ingredients, and discover the endless possibilities of steamed rice!
Garlic Butter Steamed Rice
This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the classic trio of garlic, butter, and steamed rice to create a mouthwatering side dish perfect for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying this aromatic delight in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, butter, garlic, and salt.
3. Add the water to the saucepan and stir gently to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
6. Turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing it with a fork.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Milk Steamed Rice
This simple recipe adds a rich and creamy twist to traditional steamed rice, perfect as a side dish or base for various meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional)
– 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 liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
3. Remove from heat and stir in coconut milk and butter (if using). Let it sit for 5 minutes.
4. Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Steamed Rice
This bright and citrusy side dish is a perfect accompaniment to any meal. With its subtle herbal notes and hint of lemon, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
4. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork.
5. Stir in the lemon juice, parsley, thyme, and salt.
6. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jasmine Steamed Rice with Scallions
This classic Chinese recipe is a staple in many Asian households, and for good reason – the combination of fluffy jasmine rice and fragrant scallions is both simple and impressive. In just 20 minutes, you can have a delicious and aromatic side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup jasmine rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup chopped scallions (green and white parts)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Add salt to taste. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and steam for 15-18 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a small skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped scallions and cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
5. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork. Stir in soy sauce (if using). Combine with the sautéed scallions.
6. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Turmeric and Cumin Steamed Rice
Elevate your everyday rice dish with a hint of Indian spices! This simple recipe adds a burst of flavor to plain white rice, perfect for accompanying a variety of dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh sieve until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, turmeric, cumin, and salt.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
4. Once cooked, turn off the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Steamed Rice with Black Beans and Corn
This classic Latin-inspired dish is a simple yet flavorful combination of steamed rice, tender black beans, and sweet corn kernels. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a side dish to accompany your favorite main courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and combine with water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until rice is tender.
2. While the rice cooks, heat the olive oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Add the black beans and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
3. Add the corn kernels to the bean mixture and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the corn is tender.
4. Once the rice is cooked, fluff with a fork and combine with the black bean and corn mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Basil and Tomato Steamed Rice
This flavorful and aromatic rice dish is perfect as a side or main course. With the sweetness of tomatoes and the brightness of basil, it’s a simple yet impressive addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium tomato, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 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 cooked.
3. While the rice cooks, heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the diced tomato and cook for 2-3 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
4. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and stir in the chopped basil leaves and salted tomatoes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Steamed Rice with Peas and Carrots
A simple and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of carrots and peas with fluffy steamed rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 1/4 cup sliced carrots
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
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 cooks, steam the peas and carrots in a separate pot with a tablespoon of water until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in the steamed peas and carrots. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Servings: 2-3
Ginger and Sesame Steamed Rice
Elevate your meals with this aromatic and flavorful rice dish, infused with the warmth of ginger and nuttiness of sesame. Perfect as a side or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh sieve until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
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 cooked.
3. While the rice is cooking, heat the sesame oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add the grated ginger and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains. Stir in the toasted sesame seeds and salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Steamed Rice with Mushrooms and Thyme
This comforting side dish combines fluffy steamed rice with the earthy flavors of sautéed mushrooms and thyme, making it a perfect accompaniment to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
3. While the rice cooks, heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the thyme sprigs to the skillet and cook for an additional minute. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. To serve, fluff the cooked rice with a fork and combine it with the mushroom mixture.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Chili Steamed Rice
Add a spicy kick to your steamed rice with this flavorful recipe that combines the heat of chili peppers with the comfort of a warm, fluffy grain.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1-2 dried red chili peppers, crushed or 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Optional: chopped scallions and grated cheddar cheese for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, salt, crushed chili peppers or chili flakes, and vegetable oil.
3. 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.
4. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot. Garnish with chopped scallions and grated cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Rice with Spinach and Garlic
This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the comfort of steamed rice with the nutritional benefits of spinach and the pungency of garlic. Perfect as a side dish or base for your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed 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.
3. Heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
4. Add the fresh spinach leaves to the skillet with garlic and stir until wilted.
5. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains. Stir in the garlic-spinach mixture and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cilantro Lime Steamed Rice
A flavorful and aromatic side dish that pairs perfectly with your favorite Mexican or Asian-inspired dishes. This Cilantro Lime Steamed Rice recipe is a simple yet impressive addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white 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, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. 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.
5. Stir in the chopped cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Steamed Rice with Roasted Vegetables
This recipe combines the comfort of steamed rice with the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables, creating a well-rounded and satisfying side dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the rice and combine with water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
3. Toss sweet potato, carrot, and bell pepper with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized.
4. Serve steamed rice alongside the roasted vegetables.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Curry Infused Steamed Rice
Elevate your meal with a flavorful twist on traditional steamed rice. This recipe combines the simplicity of steaming rice with the warm, aromatic spices of curry.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: curry leaves or other aromatics for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the oil, cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is fragrant (about 5 minutes).
3. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the curry-infused oil.
4. Add the water and salt to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover with a tight-fitting lid.
5. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
6. Turn off the heat and let the rice rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Steamed Rice with Sweet Potatoes and Kale
This simple and nutritious recipe combines the comfort of steamed rice with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes and the earthy flavor of kale. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 cups water
– 1 bunch of kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, sweet potatoes, and water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low and cover.
3. Steam for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender and the sweet potatoes are cooked through.
4. Stir in the chopped kale and olive oil. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional kale leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pineapple and Coconut Steamed Rice
This sweet and savory rice dish is perfect for a summer evening or as a side to your favorite grilled meats. The combination of juicy pineapple, creamy coconut milk, and fluffy steamed rice is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and cook according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a separate saucepan, combine pineapple chunks, shredded coconut, and butter. Cook over medium heat until the mixture is heated through and the coconut is lightly toasted.
3. Stir in honey and salt to taste.
4. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and stir in the pineapple-coconut mixture.
5. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Steamed Rice with Chickpeas and Turmeric
This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the warmth of turmeric with the creamy texture of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a bed of fluffy steamed rice. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas (canned or cooked from scratch)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and combine with water, salt, and turmeric in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
3. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chickpeas and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and stir in chickpea mixture.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Steamed Rice with Broccoli and Almonds
This simple recipe combines the comfort of steamed rice with the nutritional benefits of broccoli and crunch of almonds. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch, this dish is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and combine with water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until rice is tender.
2. Steam broccoli florets over boiling water for 3-5 minutes or until tender.
3. Heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced almonds and cook for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Combine cooked rice, steamed broccoli, and toasted almonds in a serving dish. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Steamed Rice with Zucchini and Parmesan
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of steamed rice with the freshness of zucchini and the richness of parmesan cheese. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced into thin rounds
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper 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, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
3. Meanwhile, steam the zucchini slices in a separate steamer basket over boiling water for 4-6 minutes or until tender.
4. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in grated parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the steamed rice with zucchini on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your mealtime routine with these 20 mouth-watering steamed rice recipes! From classic flavors like Garlic Butter and Coconut Milk, to international twists like Turmeric and Cumin and Curry Infused, there’s something for every taste bud. Add some excitement to your meals with Steamed Rice with Black Beans and Corn or Spicy Chili Steamed Rice. For a healthier option, try Steamed Rice with Roasted Vegetables or Pineapple and Coconut. With these recipes, you’ll never get bored of steamed rice again!
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