Rice is a staple food in many Asian cultures, and when it comes to cooking rice, the possibilities are endless. From savory to sweet, and from simple to elaborate, there’s no shortage of delicious rice dishes to try. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey across Asia to explore 20 flavorful rice recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy Korean kimchi fried rice or comforting Japanese garlic butter rice, we’ve got you covered. Let’s start our adventure and discover the rich flavors of Asia’s diverse rice traditions!
Thai Pineapple Fried Rice
A flavorful twist on classic fried rice, this Thai-inspired dish adds sweet and tangy pineapple to the mix.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion, garlic, and ginger; stir-fry until onion is translucent.
3. Add cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
4. Stir-fry rice for 2-3 minutes, until heated through and starting to brown.
5. Add pineapple, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry until pineapple is coated and combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Japanese Garlic Butter Rice
Savory and aromatic, this Japanese-style rice dish is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite stir-fries or grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Japanese short-grain rice (such as Koshihikari or Akita Komachi)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup water
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice thoroughly and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain the water and set the rice aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, garlic, salt, and sugar. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter has melted and the mixture is fragrant (about 5 minutes).
3. Add the drained rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the garlic-butter mixture.
4. Gradually add the water to the rice, bringing it to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until all the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Korean Bibimbap with Mixed Vegetables
A flavorful and nutritious Korean rice bowl dish filled with a variety of colorful vegetables, this bibimbap recipe is perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (zucchini, carrots, mushrooms, bean sprouts, shiitake mushrooms, and bell peppers)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 fried or poached egg (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the mixed vegetables by cutting them into bite-sized pieces.
2. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they’re tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce and Gochujang.
5. To assemble the bibimbap, place a scoop of cooked rice into a bowl, followed by the vegetable mixture.
6. Drizzle the soy-Gochujang mixture over the vegetables and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Top with a fried or poached egg, if desired.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chinese Yangzhou Fried Rice
A classic Chinese dish originating from Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province, this fried rice recipe is a staple of Chinese cuisine. With its combination of savory soy sauce, sweet scallions, and crunchy vegetables, you’ll be hooked!
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)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 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 diced onion and minced garlic; stir-fry until translucent.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
4. Push vegetables to one side of the pan. Crack in beaten eggs and scramble until cooked through.
5. Mix eggs with vegetables.
6. Add cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, incorporating soy sauce.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Rice
This aromatic and flavorful Vietnamese dish combines tender chicken, fragrant lemongrass, and fluffy rice, making it a perfect comfort food for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 stalks of lemongrass, bruised and chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the chopped lemongrass and minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the cooked chicken back into the pan and stir to combine with the lemongrass mixture.
5. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Set aside.
6. Serve the chicken mixture over the cooked rice.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Indonesian Nasi Goreng
Nasi Goreng is a popular Indonesian fried rice dish that combines the flavors of cooked rice, vegetables, and spices with a savory egg omelette. This recipe yields a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
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)
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they’re tender-crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Push the vegetable mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until cooked through.
5. Mix the eggs with the vegetables. Add the cooked rice, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry everything together for about 2-3 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Filipino Garlic Fried Rice
A classic Filipino dish that’s quick, easy, and flavorful! This garlic fried rice is a staple side dish that pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or as a snack on its own.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Stir-fry the rice for about 5 minutes, or until it’s lightly browned and crispy.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and soy sauce (if using).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Malaysian Coconut Rice
A flavorful and aromatic rice dish that’s a staple in Malaysian cuisine. This recipe combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the savory taste of spices, creating a mouthwatering side dish perfect for accompanying grilled meats or spicy curries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the soaked rice to the saucepan, stirring to coat with the spice mixture.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and water. 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.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Singaporean Hainanese Chicken Rice
This recipe is a staple of Singaporean cuisine, where the flavors of ginger, garlic, and chicken come together in perfect harmony. With this easy-to-follow guide, you can recreate this beloved dish at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3 lbs), cut into 8 pieces
– 2 cups chicken stock
– 2 inches ginger, sliced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 2 green onions, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the chicken pieces and set aside.
2. In a large pot, combine chicken stock, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Heat oil in a pan and fry the chicken until crispy and golden brown.
5. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
6. Serve the chicken with steamed rice and garnish with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Hainanese Chicken Rice!
Indian Biryani with Fragrant Spices
This fragrant and flavorful biryani is a staple of Indian cuisine, with the perfect blend of spices, basmati rice, and tender chicken. A symphony of aromas fills the air as this dish is cooked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Cook the basmati rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet and cook the chicken until browned.
3. Add onions, garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook until the onions are translucent.
4. Stir in saffron mixture and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add cooked rice to the skillet, mixing well with the spice mixture.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the rice is lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Sticky Rice with Mango
This classic Thai dessert combines fragrant sticky rice with sweet and juicy mango, creating a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of glutinous or “sweet” rice
– 2 cups of water
– 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– Salt to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice thoroughly and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the rice again, then combine with 2 cups of fresh water in a medium saucepan.
3. Add sugar and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and sticky.
4. Heat oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add diced mango and cook for 2-3 minutes or until caramelized.
5. Serve sticky rice with grilled or fresh mango slices, sprinkled with salt if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Korean Kimchi Fried Rice
A flavorful twist on traditional fried rice, this Korean-inspired dish combines the spicy kick of kimchi with savory vegetables and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, peas, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 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; cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the kimchi; stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Add the cooked rice; stir-fry until combined with the vegetable mixture.
6. Add the soy sauce and sugar; stir-fry for another minute, ensuring everything is well coated.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Transfer to a serving platter; garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chinese Clay Pot Rice with Sausage
A hearty and aromatic one-pot dish that combines the flavors of sausage, soy sauce, and rice, cooked to perfection in a clay pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Chinese sausage (lap cheong), sliced
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups water
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the clay pot and dry with a paper towel.
2. Heat the sesame oil in the clay pot over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pot.
4. Add the rice to the pot and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
5. Add the water, soy sauce, and cooked sausage back into the pot.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
7. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Vietnamese Broken Rice with Grilled Pork
A flavorful and filling Vietnamese dish that combines the comfort of broken rice with the savory taste of grilled pork.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 lb pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions with 2 cups of water.
2. Heat 1/4 cup of oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the pork slices and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the pork in the pan and stir to coat.
5. Serve the grilled pork on top of cooked broken rice, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Japanese Onigiri with Salmon Filling
Onigiri, Japanese rice balls, are a popular snack or meal in Japan. In this recipe, we’ll add a delicious salmon filling to create a unique and flavorful onigiri.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice (preferably Koshihikari or Akita Komachi)
– 1/4 cup salmon sashimi-grade fillet, diced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
– Water for shaping
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
2. Add the diced salmon, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the rice mixture. Mix until just combined.
3. Wet your hands with water and take a small handful of the rice mixture. Shape into a triangle or oval shape.
4. Place a small spoonful of the salmon filling in the center of the onigiri.
5. Fold the sides over the filling and press gently to seal.
6. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on serving size)
Enjoy your delicious Japanese Onigiri with Salmon Filling!
Indian Jeera Rice with Cumin
This flavorful recipe combines the classic Indian spice jeera (cumin) with aromatic rice, creating a simple yet satisfying side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds (jeera)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh sieve until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 5-7 seconds, or until fragrant.
3. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with oil and mix with the cumin seeds. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add the water to the saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Indonesian Nasi Uduk with Coconut Milk
Nasi Uduk is a popular Indonesian dish that combines fragrant steamed rice cooked in coconut milk with an assortment of savory accompaniments. This recipe offers a flavorful and comforting meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt to taste
– Optional accompaniments: chicken or beef, vegetables, fried shallots, and spicy sambal
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Cook until the mixture is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the coconut milk, salt, and soaked rice to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover with a tight-fitting lid. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
5. Serve the Nasi Uduk hot with your choice of accompaniments.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Filipino Bagoong Rice with Shrimp Paste
Experience the bold flavors of the Philippines with this simple and aromatic rice dish, infused with the savory goodness of shrimp paste.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/4 cup bagoong (shrimp paste), chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Stir in the chopped bagoong (shrimp paste) and cook for 1-2 minutes, until well combined with the onion mixture.
5. Mix in the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps with a spatula or spoon.
6. Season with salt to taste; add black pepper if desired.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the flavors are fully incorporated and the rice is heated through.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Malaysian Nasi Lemak with Sambal
Nasi Lemak is a fragrant and flavorful rice dish that’s a staple in Malaysian cuisine, often served with spicy sambal sauce. This recipe combines the two to create a mouthwatering combination.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups long-grain jasmine rice
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup pandan extract
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups anchovy-free fish sauce (or vegetarian alternative)
– 2 tablespoons sambal oelek (chili paste)
– Sambal sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Rinse rice and soak in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and cook rice with coconut milk, pandan extract, and salt until fluffy.
3. Heat oil in a pan and sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
4. Add fish sauce (or alternative) and sambal oelek; stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Serve Nasi Lemak hot with Sambal Sauce on the side.
Sambal Sauce Recipe:
– 2 cups diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup chili peppers, seeded and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or vegetarian alternative)
– Salt, to taste
Combine all ingredients in a blender or food processor; blend until smooth. Cook for 10 minutes or until desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes (including soaking time)
Singaporean Chilli Crab Fried Rice
A classic Singaporean dish that combines the flavors of spicy chilli crab with a savory fried rice, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 cup chilli crab paste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g. peas, carrots, corn)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; stir-fry until fragrant.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked rice; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the chilli crab paste with 1 tablespoon of water.
5. Pour the chilli crab mixture into the wok or skillet and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.
6. Push the rice mixture to one side of the wok; pour the beaten eggs into the other side and scramble until cooked through.
7. Mix the eggs with the rice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
20 Flavorful Asian Rice Recipes Authentic and Delicious: Discover a world of flavors with these 20 authentic and mouth-watering Asian rice recipes. From classic dishes like Thai Pineapple Fried Rice and Japanese Garlic Butter Rice, to more adventurous options like Korean Kimchi Fried Rice and Indian Biryani with Fragrant Spices, there’s something for everyone. Explore the diverse culinary traditions of Asia with recipes that showcase the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and aromas. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for inspiration, this collection is sure to delight your taste buds.
