Are you looking for a flavorful and filling meal that’s easy to make? Look no further than these 18 delicious Asian rice recipes! From spicy kimchi fried rice to savory Hainanese chicken rice, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey across Asia, exploring the diverse and exciting world of rice dishes.
Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and comforting, there’s an Asian rice recipe here that’s sure to please. From classic Thai sticky rice with mango to spicy Korean bibimbap, these recipes showcase the incredible variety and creativity of Asian cuisine. So grab your rice cooker, get cooking, and discover a world of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more!
Thai Pineapple Fried Rice
This recipe combines the flavors of Thailand with the sweetness of pineapple, creating a delicious and unique fried rice dish. With this simple recipe, you can easily recreate the flavors of Thailand in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 cup diced pineapple
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked pineapple; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the cooked rice, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry for 5-7 minutes or until combined and heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Japanese Tamago Kake Gohan
This comforting dish is a staple in Japanese cuisine, combining simple yet flavorful ingredients to create a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Japanese short-grain rice (preferably Koshihikari or Akita Komachi)
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (Japanese rice wine) or dry white wine
– 1 teaspoon mirin (sweet Japanese cooking sake)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice thoroughly and combine it with water, salt, and a pinch of salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low heat and cover.
2. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
3. While the rice cooks, whisk together eggs, soy sauce, sake (or dry white wine), and mirin in a small bowl.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the cooked rice and mix gently with a wooden spoon to create a creamy, savory tamago kake (Japanese-style omelette).
5. Serve immediately over the cooked Japanese rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Kimchi Fried Rice
Kimchi fried rice, a popular Korean dish, is a flavorful and spicy twist on traditional fried rice. This recipe combines the bold flavors of kimchi with the comforting warmth of cooked rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until cooked through.
4. Mix the eggs with the vegetables.
5. Add the chopped kimchi and cooked rice to the pan. Stir-fry everything together for about 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chinese Yangzhou Fried Rice
Yangzhou Fried Rice is a beloved Chinese dish that originated from Yangzhou City, Jiangsu Province. This simple and flavorful recipe combines cooked rice, vegetables, and your choice of protein to create a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 cup cooked chicken or pork, diced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 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 and garlic; stir-fry until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked protein; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the cooked rice, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Transfer to a serving platter; garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Indonesian Nasi Goreng
A flavorful and aromatic Indonesian dish that’s a staple at many street food stalls and restaurants, Nasi Goreng is a must-try for anyone who loves fried rice. This recipe yields a deliciously savory and slightly sweet fried rice dish, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1-2 chicken or fish pieces (cooked and diced)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until translucent.
3. Add mixed vegetables; stir-fry for 2 minutes.
4. Push ingredients to one side of the pan. Crack eggs into the other side; scramble until cooked through.
5. Mix eggs with the vegetable mixture. Add cooked rice, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry until well combined.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot with optional protein or without.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vietnamese Broken Rice with Grilled Pork
This classic Vietnamese dish combines flavorful grilled pork with crispy broken rice, resulting in a delightful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1 pound pork shoulder or butt, sliced into thin strips
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and black pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the pork slices.
4. Grill the pork for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the broken rice by crushing the cooked rice into smaller pieces in a large bowl using your hands or a rolling pin.
6. Add vegetable oil to the crushed rice and mix well.
7. Cook the pork for an additional 2-3 minutes if needed. Slice into thin strips.
8. Serve the grilled pork on top of the broken rice, garnished with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Malaysian Nasi Lemak
Nasi Lemak is a quintessential Malaysian dish that combines the aromas and flavors of coconut, spices, and fragrant rice. This iconic recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the rich culinary heritage of this Southeast Asian nation.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white glutinous rice (also known as “pulut”)
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon coriander powder
– Salt to taste
– Fried anchovies (optional)
– Sliced cucumbers and fried peanuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice thoroughly and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and cook the rice according to package instructions.
3. In a separate pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; sauté until fragrant.
4. Add coriander powder and salt; stir well.
5. Gradually add coconut milk while stirring; bring to a simmer.
6. Serve the Nasi Lemak with fried anchovies (if using), cucumbers, and peanuts for garnish.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Filipino Garlic Fried Rice
This savory and aromatic dish is a staple in Filipino cuisine, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a side dish to your favorite Filipino dishes. With its bold flavors and satisfying crunch, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and onion; sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the cooked rice; stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
4. Add the soy sauce; season with salt to taste.
5. If using egg, push the rice mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in the egg and scramble it until cooked through. Mix the egg with the rice.
6. Serve hot!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Singaporean Hainanese Chicken Rice
This classic Singaporean dish is a staple in many households and restaurants. With its tender chicken, flavorful rice cooked in chicken stock, and spicy chili sauce, it’s a must-try!
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3 lbs)
– 2 cups of uncooked jasmine rice
– 4 cups of chicken stock
– 2 tbsp of vegetable oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tsp of salt
– 1/4 cup of pandan leaves or substitute with bay leaves
– Chili sauce and garnishes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse chicken and pat dry. Stuff with pandan leaves, then roast in the oven for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
3. Cook jasmine rice according to package instructions using 4 cups of chicken stock instead of water.
4. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
5. Serve roasted chicken with steamed rice, chili sauce, and garnishes (if desired).
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Thai Sticky Rice with Mango
Thai Sticky Rice with Mango is a classic Southeast Asian dessert that combines the creamy texture of glutinous rice with the sweetness of ripe mango. This simple yet satisfying treat is perfect for warm weather or as a quick dessert any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup glutinous rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 ripe mango, sliced
– 1 tablespoon coconut milk (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the rice and combine with sugar, salt, and 2 cups of fresh water in a medium saucepan.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is creamy and sticky.
4. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork.
5. Serve the sticky rice with sliced mango and drizzle with coconut milk (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Japanese Onigiri (Rice Balls)
A classic Japanese snack that’s easy to make and fun to eat, onigiri are triangular-shaped rice balls filled with tasty ingredients. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make these delicious treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 1/2 cup water
– Salt to taste
– Fillings of your choice (e.g., salmon, tuna, pickled plum, boiled egg, or cucumber)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice and salt. Mix well with a wooden spoon until the rice is evenly seasoned.
2. Gradually add the water to the rice mixture while kneading it with your hands until the rice forms a sticky dough.
3. Divide the dough into 4-6 equal pieces, depending on how large you want your onigiri to be.
4. Shape each piece into a triangle by pressing the edges together and forming a peak in the middle.
5. Place your desired filling in the center of each triangle.
6. Fold the edges over the filling to seal the onigiri, making sure they are tightly closed.
Cooking Time: None! Onigiri are best served fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Korean Bibimbap
Bibimbap is a beloved Korean dish that literally means “mixed rice.” This signature meal is a harmonious blend of nutritious vegetables, savory meat, and flavorful sauces, all served over a bed of warm white rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup diced beef (ribeye or sirloin), marinated in 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sugar, and 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables ( bean sprouts, shiitake mushrooms, zucchini, carrots)
– 1/4 cup chopped kimchi (Korean fermented cabbage)
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the beef according to marinade instructions.
2. Sauté mixed vegetables until tender.
3. In a separate pan, fry an egg until cooked.
4. Assemble Bibimbap by placing rice in a bowl, followed by beef, vegetables, kimchi, and fried egg.
5. Drizzle Gochujang, soy sauce, and sesame oil over the dish.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chinese Clay Pot Rice
Cooking rice in a clay pot with savory ingredients is an age-old Chinese tradition that yields a deliciously flavored and textured dish. With this simple recipe, you can replicate the authentic flavors of China in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked Thai jasmine rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, peas, corn)
– 1/4 cup cooked chicken or pork, diced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat oil in a clay pot over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add soaked rice, salt, white pepper, and mixed vegetables to the pot. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add 2 cups of water to the pot and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until rice is cooked.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Indian Vegetable Biryani
A classic Indian dish that’s a perfect blend of aromatic spices and fluffy rice, this vegetable biryani is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, cauliflower)
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat ghee or oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add garlic, mixed vegetables, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the soaked rice to the saucepan and stir well. Add 2 cups of water and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
6. Fluff the biryani with a fork and squeeze a splash of lemon juice on top.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cambodian Bokor Lemongrass Rice
This fragrant and flavorful rice dish is a staple in Cambodian cuisine, often served alongside grilled meats or as a side to spicy stir-fries. With the addition of lemongrass, this recipe adds a unique aroma and depth to traditional steamed rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice thoroughly and combine with water in a medium saucepan.
2. Add the bruised lemongrass, vegetable oil, and grated ginger.
3. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low and cover.
4. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
5. Fluff with a fork and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Taiwanese Braised Pork Rice
A comforting and flavorful Taiwanese classic, this braised pork rice dish is a staple in many households. With tender chunks of pork, savory soy sauce, and fluffy white rice, it’s a meal that warms the heart and satisfies the appetite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly or shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup soy sauce
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large wok or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from wok and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to the wok; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add soy sauce, sugar, and broth; stir until combined.
5. Return pork to the wok; simmer for 1-2 hours or until tender.
6. Serve over cooked white rice, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Laotian Sticky Rice with Dipping Sauces
Laotian Sticky Rice with Dipping Sauces Recipe
Summary: This classic Lao dish is a staple in every household. The combination of sticky rice, flavorful sauces, and a hint of sweetness will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup glutinous or “sweet” rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Dipping Sauces (see below)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice thoroughly and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the water and combine the rice with 2 cups of fresh water, salt, and vegetable oil. Cook according to package instructions.
3. Once cooked, fluff the sticky rice with a fork until it’s light and fluffy.
Dipping Sauces:
– Fried Shallot Sauce: Mince 1/4 cup of fried shallots and mix with 2 tablespoons of fish sauce, 1 tablespoon of lime juice, and 1 minced clove of garlic.
– Spicy Tamarind Sauce: Mix 2 tablespoons of tamarind paste with 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, 1 tablespoon of lime juice, and 1-2 teaspoons of chili flakes.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour (including soaking time)
Burmese Coconut Rice
A flavorful and aromatic side dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of Burmese dishes. This coconut rice is a staple in many Burmese households, and its warm, comforting aroma will fill your home with the scent of tropical paradise.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or jasmine rice
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the grated ginger and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the soaked rice to the saucepan and stir well to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and water, 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 cooked.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Summary
Discover the rich flavors and aromas of Asia with these 18 mouth-watering rice recipes! From spicy Thai Pineapple Fried Rice to savory Japanese Tamago Kake Gohan, explore the diverse world of Asian rice dishes. Learn how to make Indonesian Nasi Goreng, Vietnamese Broken Rice with Grilled Pork, Malaysian Nasi Lemak, and many more. Whether you’re a fan of seafood, meat, or vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone in this collection of flavorful and aromatic recipes. Get ready to spice up your meals with these Asian rice masterpieces!
