The hustle and bustle of a busy weeknight can make it challenging to whip up a delicious meal that’s quick, easy, and satisfying. But fear not, fellow foodies! Instant brown rice is here to save the day (or at least your dinner plate). With its creamy texture, mild flavor, and versatility, instant brown rice is the perfect canvas for a wide range of flavors and ingredients. In this article, we’ll explore 20 quick and tasty recipes that showcase the best of instant brown rice. From savory stir-fries to sweet desserts, these recipes will have you cooking up a storm in no time. Whether you’re a busy professional, a student on-the-go, or just someone who loves trying new foods, this collection has something for everyone.
Garlic Butter Instant Brown Rice with Herbs
Elevate your meal with this flavorful and aromatic side dish that combines the simplicity of instant brown rice with the richness of garlic butter and fresh herbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup instant brown rice
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the instant brown rice according to package instructions.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Stir in the cooked rice, parsley, thyme, and salt.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Brown Rice Stir-Fry with Vegetables
A quick and easy weeknight dinner that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. This recipe is perfect for a busy evening when you need a healthy meal on the table fast.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup instant brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots, snap peas)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the instant brown rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the sliced bell pepper and mixed vegetables; cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Stir in the cooked rice, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spicy Instant Brown Rice and Black Bean Bowl
Quickly prepare a flavorful and nutritious bowl with this simple recipe. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup instant brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: avocado, sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese, cilantro for toppings
Instructions:
1. Cook the instant brown rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Stir in the cumin and chili powder; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the black beans to the skillet and stir to combine with the spice mixture.
6. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add it to the skillet with the black bean mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with your desired toppings (optional).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Brown Rice Pilaf with Mushrooms
A hearty and flavorful pilaf that’s ready in no time! This recipe combines the convenience of instant brown rice with the earthy goodness of sautéed mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Instant Brown Rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the instant brown rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Instant Brown Rice Casserole
A comforting, easy-to-make casserole that combines the convenience of instant brown rice with the creaminess of melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup instant brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the instant brown rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, melted butter, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Brown Rice and Chicken Teriyaki
This recipe combines the convenience of instant brown rice with the flavors of Japanese teriyaki sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or quick lunch. With minimal prep time and cooking effort, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Instant Brown Rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup Teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Instant Brown Rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Pour Teriyaki sauce over the chicken and stir to coat. Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Serve cooked rice alongside the Chicken Teriyaki. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Instant Brown Rice Salad
A flavorful and nutritious salad that combines the warmth of Mediterranean cuisine with the convenience of instant brown rice. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup instant brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the instant brown rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, parsley, mint, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese (if using).
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Pour the dressing over the rice mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Brown Rice Jambalaya with Sausage
This recipe combines the convenience of instant brown rice with the bold flavors of jambalaya, featuring juicy sausage and savory spices. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Instant Brown Rice
– 1 lb Sausage (such as Andouille or smoked sausage), sliced
– 1 medium Onion, diced
– 2 cloves Garlic, minced
– 1 cup Chicken Broth
– 1 tsp Paprika
– Salt and Pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
Instructions:
1. Cook the Instant Brown Rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat the Olive Oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced Onion and minced Garlic to the skillet; cook until the Onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the Chicken Broth, Paprika, Salt, and Pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Combine the cooked Instant Brown Rice with the sausage mixture; stir well.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Coconut Lime Instant Brown Rice
Elevate your meal with this refreshing twist on traditional brown rice. This Coconut Lime Instant Brown Rice is a flavorful and aromatic side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup instant brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened coconut oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the instant brown rice and water.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed.
3. While the rice cooks, mix the shredded coconut and lime juice in a small bowl.
4. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and stir in the coconut mixture, coconut oil, and salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Instant Brown Rice Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the convenience of instant brown rice with the crunch of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup Instant Brown Rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, or cooked ground beef for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook Instant Brown Rice according to package instructions with 2 cups of water.
3. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until softened.
5. Stir cooked rice into the skillet mixture, then season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture and top with shredded cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Instant Brown Rice and Shrimp Scampi
In this quick and flavorful recipe, succulent shrimp are paired with instant brown rice and a hint of garlic butter to create a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Instant Brown Rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the instant brown rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir in the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
5. Serve the cooked rice with the scampi sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mexican Instant Brown Rice with Corn and Peppers
Add a burst of flavor to your meal with this quick and easy recipe that combines the comfort of brown rice with the sweetness of corn and bell peppers. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch, this dish is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup instant brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small ear of corn, husked and sliced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, or diced tomatoes for topping
Instructions:
1. Cook the instant brown rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sliced corn to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until slightly charred.
4. Fluff the cooked brown rice with a fork and stir in the cumin and salt to taste.
5. Combine the cooked rice and vegetable mixture; serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Brown Rice and Lentil Curry
A flavorful and nutritious curry made with the convenience of instant brown rice and red lentils, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup instant brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the instant brown rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, cumin, curry powder, and salt. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Combine the cooked rice with the lentil mixture. Stir well to combine.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Brown Rice Sushi Rolls
Looking for a quick and convenient sushi fix? This recipe uses instant brown rice to make delicious sushi rolls in no time. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup instant brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup sushi vinegar (or substitute with equal parts water, rice vinegar, and sugar)
– Fillings of your choice (e.g., cooked salmon, cucumber, avocado, carrot, etc.)
– Nori sheets (dried seaweed sheets)
Instructions:
1. Cook instant brown rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Mix in sushi vinegar and let cool to room temperature.
3. Prepare your fillings of choice.
4. Lay a nori sheet flat on a surface. Spread a thin layer of cooled rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Place your fillings in the middle of the rice.
6. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or a clean tea towel, applying gentle pressure to form a compact roll.
7. Slice into individual pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes (including cooking time for instant brown rice).
Instant Brown Rice Pudding with Cinnamon
This simple recipe combines the convenience of instant brown rice with the warmth and comfort of cinnamon, perfect for a cozy evening treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup instant brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine instant brown rice and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
3. Stir in ground cinnamon and sugar (if using).
4. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Instant Brown Rice and Beef Stir-Fry
Cook up a flavorful and filling meal with this easy recipe that combines the convenience of instant brown rice with the savory taste of beef and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup instant brown rice
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (e.g. peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the instant brown rice according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Add the bell pepper and frozen vegetables to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Stir in the cooked beef strips and soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the beef stir-fry over the cooked instant brown rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Brown Rice Risotto with Asparagus
Elevate your meal game with this innovative recipe that combines the creaminess of risotto with the convenience of instant brown rice. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Instant Brown Rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Instant Brown Rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the asparagus, onion, and garlic; cook until the asparagus is tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the cooked brown rice, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the rice is creamy and well combined with the asparagus mixture.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Instant Brown Rice Tabbouleh Salad
This refreshing salad combines the ease of instant brown rice with the classic flavors of tabbouleh, perfect for a quick and healthy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup instant brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook the instant brown rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, parsley, scallions, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes.
3. Squeeze lemon juice over the salad and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Instant Brown Rice and Chickpea Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect blend of creamy, flavorful goodness, made even quicker with the help of instant brown rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunchbox addition.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup instant brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the instant brown rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas to the pot and stir to combine with the spice mixture.
5. Once rice is cooked, fluff with a fork and add to the stew pot. Stir to combine.
6. Simmer the stew for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Brown Rice Breakfast Bowl with Eggs
Start your day with a nutritious and filling breakfast bowl that combines the convenience of instant brown rice with the protein-packed goodness of eggs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Instant Brown Rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped veggies (bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach), shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
Instructions:
1. Cook the instant brown rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of boiling water. Stir well, cover, and let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. While the rice is cooking, heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them until they are cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add the scrambled eggs on top. If desired, add chopped veggies or shredded cheese for added flavor and nutrition.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to transform your weeknights with these 20 quick and delicious instant brown rice recipes! From classic stir-fries to international-inspired dishes, we’ve got you covered. Try Garlic Butter Instant Brown Rice with Herbs for a flavorful side dish or make a Spicy Black Bean Bowl for a satisfying meal. With options ranging from Cheesy Casserole to Mediterranean Salads, there’s something for every taste and dietary preference. And the best part? These recipes are all quick, easy, and made with instant brown rice – perfect for busy weeknights!
