Title: 20 Flavorful Rice Recipes for Every Occasion
When it comes to cooking, rice is often a staple ingredient. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a flavorful main course, there’s a rice recipe out there that can satisfy your cravings. In this article, we’ll explore the world of rice and provide 20 delicious recipes that will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen. From classic dishes like Mexican Rice with Black Beans to innovative fusion recipes like Coconut Lime Jasmine Rice, we’ve got you covered for every occasion.
In the following pages, we’ll delve into the diverse world of rice and explore a range of cuisines, from Asian-inspired dishes like Thai Pineapple Fried Rice to Mediterranean-style recipes like Greek Lemon Rice with Feta. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, sweet, or savory, our 20 flavorful rice recipes have got you covered.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Fried Rice
This flavorful dish combines succulent shrimp with savory garlic butter and fluffy fried rice, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 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 onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
5. Add the butter to the pan and stir-fry until melted.
6. Add cooked rice to the pan, stirring to combine with the garlic butter mixture.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
8. Return the shrimp to the pan; season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Coconut Lime Jasmine Rice
Elevate your meal with this flavorful and aromatic Coconut Lime Jasmine Rice recipe. This dish combines the sweetness of coconut, the brightness of lime, and the subtle charm of jasmine rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup 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 rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, and salt. 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.
4. Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the shredded coconut, lime juice, and vegetable oil.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tips:
– Adjust the amount of lime juice to your taste.
– Use fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best results.
Spicy Kimchi Fried Rice
Get ready to spice up your meal with this bold and flavorful Spicy Kimchi Fried Rice recipe!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 teaspoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the kimchi and Gochujang; stir-fry for 2 minutes.
4. Push the kimchi mixture to one side of the pan.
5. Pour some oil into the empty side, then add the cooked rice.
6. Stir-fry the rice with a spatula until it’s heated through and slightly browned.
7. Combine the rice with the kimchi mixture; season with salt and black pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetable Biryani with Basmati Rice
Experience the flavorful fusion of Indian spices and aromatic basmati rice with this Vegetable Biryani recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 potato, peeled and diced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, cauliflower, carrots)
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the basmati rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and potato. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables, cumin seeds, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Stir well.
4. Add drained basmati rice to the saucepan and stir to combine with the vegetable mixture.
5. Add 2 cups of water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until rice is cooked and fluffy.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole that combines the goodness of broccoli, cheese, and rice, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, broccoli, cheddar cheese, and thyme.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and melted butter. Pour over the rice mixture and stir until combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and smooth out the top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Rice with Black Beans
A flavorful and nutritious side dish that combines the warmth of Mexican spices with the creamy texture of black beans. Perfect for accompanying your favorite Latin-inspired dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cumin, then add the uncooked rice and water to the saucepan.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Stir in the cooked black beans and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl
Experience the flavors of Japan with this simple and delicious Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl recipe. Sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, juicy chicken, and fluffy rice come together for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the chicken in a pan with some oil until cooked through.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic.
3. Add the sauce to the cooked chicken and stir to coat.
4. Serve the chicken over Japanese short-grain rice.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Herb Rice Pilaf
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of rice with the brightness of lemon and the freshness of herbs, perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses.
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 thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with onions and garlic.
5. Add the water, lemon juice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
7. Fluff with a fork and garnish with parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Thai Pineapple Fried Rice
Experience the sweet and savory fusion of Thai cuisine with this delectable pineapple fried rice recipe. A flavorful twist on a classic dish, this recipe combines the freshness of pineapple with the comfort of fried rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until translucent.
3. Add mixed vegetables, Thai red curry paste, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add cooked rice, diced pineapple, fish sauce (if using), soy sauce, and cilantro. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the ingredients are well combined.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spanish Rice with Chorizo
This flavorful Spanish-inspired dish combines saffron-infused rice with spicy chorizo sausage and aromatic vegetables, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With its bold flavors and vibrant colors, this recipe is sure to delight!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 pound chorizo sausage, sliced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chorizo and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add rice and stir to coat with the vegetable mixture. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add water and saffron mixture. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
5. Fluff rice with a fork and season with salt and pepper.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mushroom Risotto with Parmesan
Rich and comforting, this classic Italian dish is a perfect way to warm up on a chilly evening. With the earthy flavor of mushrooms and the salty tang of Parmesan, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, 5-6 minutes.
4. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add white wine (if using); cook until absorbed, 2 minutes.
6. Add 1/2 cup broth at a time, stirring constantly and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
7. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in Parmesan cheese.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Jambalaya with Andouille Sausage
A classic Creole dish gets a bold twist with the addition of smoky Andouille sausage and spicy tomatoes. This one-pot wonder is perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add diced tomatoes with green chilies, chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add cooked sausage back into the pot, stirring to coat with tomato mixture.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and packed with flavor! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 pound ground beef or turkey, cooked and drained
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, ground beef or turkey, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Curried Rice with Peas and Carrots
This flavorful side dish is a staple in many Indian households, and for good reason – the combination of saffron-infused rice, tender peas, and crunchy carrots is a match made in heaven. This simple recipe yields a delicious and aromatic result that’s perfect for accompanying your favorite curries or as a standalone side.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 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 large saucepan over medium heat. Add the curry powder and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
3. Add the soaked saffron, rice, and 2 cups of water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
4. Stir in the frozen peas and carrots during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Lemon Rice with Feta
A classic Greek side dish, this recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the creaminess of feta cheese and the comfort of warm rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Stir in lemon juice and cook for an additional minute, allowing flavors to meld.
4. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and stir into the skillet, combining with the lemon-garlic mixture.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese and season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Wild Rice Soup with Chicken
This comforting soup recipe combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with tender chicken, vegetables, and aromatic spices for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed wild rice blend
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned, breaking into smaller pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the garlic, wild rice blend, chicken broth, thyme, and paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the wild rice is tender.
5. Stir in the frozen peas and carrots. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes
Fried Rice with Egg and Scallions
This classic Chinese dish is a staple of comfort food, made with leftover rice, scrambled eggs, and crisp scallions. With just a few simple ingredients and some quick cooking, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 scallions, chopped
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt 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 in the eggs and scramble until cooked through, breaking into small pieces as they set.
3. Mix the eggs with the rice.
4. Add the diced onion and chopped scallions to the pan. Stir-fry until the vegetables are softened and the mixture is heated through.
5. Season with soy sauce and salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Rice Pudding with Cinnamon
This classic dessert is a perfect treat on a chilly evening. The combination of creamy rice, sweet milk, and warm cinnamon will leave you feeling cozy and satisfied.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the pudding has thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Rice and Black Bean Burritos
This recipe combines the simplicity of rice and beans with the convenience of a burrito, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you’ll be enjoying these delicious burritos in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 tortillas (flour or corn)
– Shredded cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cumin; cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cooked rice and black beans; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble burritos by spooning the rice and bean mixture onto a tortilla, followed by shredded cheese (if using).
7. Roll up and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Basil Rice Salad
A classic summer salad that combines the sweetness of tomatoes, the brightness of basil, and the creaminess of mozzarella cheese. This refreshing dish is perfect for a quick lunch or as a side to your favorite grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled mozzarella cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, cherry tomatoes, and chopped basil.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the rice mixture and toss to combine.
4. Top with crumbled mozzarella cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 20 mouth-watering rice recipes! From seafood to vegetarian options, and even desserts, this collection has something for every occasion. Enjoy Garlic Butter Shrimp Fried Rice or Spicy Kimchi Fried Rice for a flavorful twist on classic Chinese dishes. Try Coconut Lime Jasmine Rice for a tropical touch or Vegetable Biryani with Basmati Rice for an Indian-inspired treat. And that’s just the beginning – discover more international flavors and comforting casserole recipes in this comprehensive guide to rice cooking.