When it comes to cooking, rice is a staple ingredient that can be used in a wide variety of dishes. From savory main courses to sweet desserts, rice is a versatile grain that can add texture, flavor, and nutrition to any meal. In this article, we’ll explore 20 flavorful rice dishes from around the world that are perfect for every occasion.
From classic Chinese stir-fries to spicy Korean kimchi fried rice, these recipes showcase the incredible diversity of rice-based cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping centerpiece for your next dinner party, we’ve got you covered with our collection of creative and delicious rice dishes.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Fried Rice
Experience the flavors of Asia with this mouthwatering Garlic Butter Shrimp Fried Rice recipe. This quick and easy dish combines succulent shrimp, savory garlic butter, and flavorful fried rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until rice is lightly toasted.
5. Stir in soy sauce and sesame oil. Add cooked shrimp back into the skillet and stir-fry everything together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Vegetable Biryani with Fragrant Spices
This flavorful and aromatic Vegetable Biryani is a perfect blend of spices, basmati rice, and colorful vegetables. It’s a popular Indian dish that’s easy to make and can be served as a main course or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, cauliflower, green beans)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil or ghee in a large pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cooked rice to the pan. Mix well.
5. Add water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Risotto with Parmesan
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this creamy mushroom risotto, perfectly balanced by the salty sweetness of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown.
3. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add white wine (if using); cook until absorbed.
5. Warm broth in a separate pot; add 1/2 cup to rice mixture, stirring constantly. Repeat process until all broth is used, about 20-25 minutes.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Kimchi Fried Rice with Egg
Transform leftover rice into a flavorful and spicy dish by combining it with kimchi, scrambled eggs, and crispy vegetables. This recipe is a twist on traditional fried rice, adding a kick of spice and a burst of color.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped
– 2 eggs
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: scallions, bean sprouts, or other vegetables of your choice
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped kimchi and cook until slightly caramelized, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Push the kimchi to one side of the pan. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until cooked through.
4. Mix the eggs with the kimchi. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; stir-fry for another minute.
5. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, or until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Pineapple Fried Rice with Cashews
This sweet and savory dish is a twist on traditional fried rice, adding juicy pineapple chunks and crunchy cashews for added texture and flavor. Perfect as a main course or side dish, this recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 1/2 cup chopped cashews
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Stir-fry the rice for about 5 minutes, until it starts to brown and crispy bits form.
6. Add diced pineapple, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the pineapple is well coated.
7. Remove from heat, stir in chopped cashews, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mexican Rice with Black Beans and Corn
This flavorful one-pot dish combines the comfort of Mexican rice with the nutrients of black beans and sweet corn, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed (15 ounces)
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add the garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper; cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
5. Add the black beans and corn kernels. Stir well and let it sit for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 22-25 minutes
Lemon Herb Rice Pilaf with Almonds
A flavorful and aromatic rice dish infused with the brightness of lemon and the earthiness of herbs, perfectly balanced by the crunch of toasted almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh thyme, chopped
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add rice, parsley, thyme, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until rice is lightly toasted.
5. Add water; bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until rice is tender.
6. Toast almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
7. Fluff pilaf with a fork; stir in toasted almonds.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken and Vegetable Rice Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious meal that combines juicy chicken, tender vegetables, and savory teriyaki sauce with a bed of fluffy rice. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, and ginger.
3. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush with the teriyaki mixture.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast alongside the chicken for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
6. Cook rice according to package instructions.
7. Assemble bowls by placing chicken and vegetables on top of rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Coconut Rice with Mango and Lime
This tropical rice dish is a perfect blend of creamy coconut, sweet mango, and tangy lime. A flavorful and refreshing side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine coconut milk, water, and unsweetened shredded coconut. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add the soaked rice to the saucepan, stirring gently to combine. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
4. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork. Stir in diced mango and lime juice. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Jambalaya with Sausage and Shrimp
A classic Louisiana dish that combines the flavors of sausage, shrimp, and rice, this spicy jambalaya is a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille or kielbasa), sliced
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
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.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with sausage and onion mixture.
5. Cook for 1 minute, then add chicken broth, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
7. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spanish Rice with Tomatoes and Peppers
This flavorful side dish combines the warmth of sautéed onions and garlic with the sweetness of fresh tomatoes and bell peppers, all wrapped up in a savory Spanish rice. Perfect for accompanying your favorite grilled meats or as a standalone vegetarian option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 1 large bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the diced tomato and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the cooked rice to the saucepan, stirring to combine with the vegetable mixture.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the rice is lightly toasted.
7. Season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Wild Rice Salad with Cranberries and Pecans
Wild Rice Salad with Cranberries and Pecans Recipe
This hearty salad combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the sweetness of cranberries and the crunch of pecans, perfect for a seasonal side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked wild rice
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta for added richness
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice, cranberries, and pecans.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the wild rice mixture and toss to combine.
- Top with crumbled goat cheese or feta, if using.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
This classic casserole is a perfect blend of creamy cheese, tender broccoli, and fluffy rice. It’s an easy-to-make, satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups steamed broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, steamed broccoli, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and melted butter.
3. Pour in the milk and mix until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines tender beef and savory rice with bell pepper sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp 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. Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, peas and carrots, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in cooked rice and mix well.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the beef-rice mixture and place upright in a baking dish.
7. Drizzle tops with olive oil and cover with foil.
8. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Curried Rice with Chickpeas and Spinach
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot dish that combines the comfort of curried rice with the protein-rich goodness of chickpeas and the nutritional boost of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and cook according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chickpeas and cook until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and salt. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, spinach leaves, and chickpea mixture. Cook until the spinach has wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve hot with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Rice with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
This vibrant dish combines fluffy pesto rice with sweet and tangy roasted cherry tomatoes, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– 12-15 cherry tomatoes, halved
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using the water and pesto sauce.
3. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they release their juices and start to caramelize.
4. Fluff cooked rice with a fork. Stir in salt to taste.
5. Serve roasted cherry tomatoes on top of the pesto rice. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Chicken and Rice with Peas
A hearty and comforting meal that’s ready in no time! This recipe combines the flavors of chicken, rice, and peas in a single pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white or brown rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the rice, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the pot, along with the peas.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Fried Rice with Tofu and Mixed Vegetables
A flavorful and nutritious Chinese-inspired dish that combines the simplicity of rice with the versatility of mixed vegetables and protein-rich tofu. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic; stir-fry until onion is translucent.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Push vegetables to one side of the pan. Crack in eggs (if using) and scramble until cooked through.
6. Mix eggs with vegetables.
7. Add cooked rice, soy sauce, salt, and pepper; stir-fry until combined and heated through.
8. Return tofu to the pan and mix well.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Saffron Rice with Raisins and Pistachios
Elevate your meals with this aromatic saffron rice, infused with sweet raisins and crunchy pistachios.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1/4 cup golden raisins
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the soaked saffron and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the saffron mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the water to the saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the raisins and pistachios. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rice Pudding with Cinnamon and Vanilla
This classic dessert is a staple of many cultures, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, comforting, and delicious. This recipe adds the warmth of cinnamon and the sweetness of vanilla to create a perfect treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is creamy and cooked through.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Serve warm, or chill before serving.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with these 20 flavorful rice dishes! From classic comfort foods like Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole and Beef and Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers, to international inspirations like Thai Pineapple Fried Rice with Cashews and Spanish Rice with Tomatoes and Peppers, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory like Garlic Butter Shrimp Fried Rice or something sweet like Coconut Rice with Mango and Lime, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
