How To Do More With Rice

Rice is one of those ingredients that nearly everyone has in the cupboard, but it can be easy to fall into the habit of serving it in exactly the same way every time. Boiled rice alongside a curry or chilli is a classic for a reason, but there is so much more you can do with it.

From quick lunches to comforting dinners and even desserts, a simple bag of rice can go a surprisingly long way. If you are looking to make your meals a little more interesting without overcomplicating things, here are a few ideas to try.

Experiment With Different Types Of Rice

Not all rice is the same, and simply switching varieties can completely change a meal. Basmati is light and fragrant, jasmine rice has a slightly stickier texture, while short-grain rice is perfect for dishes where you want the grains to cling together.

You could also try brown rice for a nuttier flavour, wild rice blends for extra texture, or Japanese short-grain rice for dishes such as sushi bowls, donburi and onigiri.

If you cook rice regularly, investing in the right equipment can also make experimenting easier. A Zojirushi rice cooker UK model can help take some of the guesswork out of getting the texture right, particularly when you are trying different rice varieties.

Turn Leftovers Into Something New

Leftover rice is far too useful to waste. In fact, chilled cooked rice is often ideal for making fried rice because the grains are firmer and less likely to become mushy.

Heat a little oil in a wok or frying pan, then add vegetables, egg, spring onions and your choice of meat, prawns or tofu. Soy sauce, sesame oil, chilli crisp or sriracha can quickly add plenty of flavour.

You can also use leftover rice in stuffed peppers, burritos, soups or homemade rice patties.

Build A Rice Bowl

Rice bowls are a brilliant option when you want something quick but still want plenty of variety. Start with rice, then build the rest of the dish around whatever you already have in the fridge.

Try combinations such as:

• Salmon, avocado, cucumber, and sesame seeds
• Chicken, broccoli, and teriyaki sauce
• Tofu, edamame, and pickled vegetables
• Roasted vegetables, chickpeas, and tahini
• Beef strips, kimchi, and a fried egg

With a reliable cooker from Zojirushi UK, you can prepare the rice while getting the toppings ready, making this an especially handy option for busy evenings.

Use Rice In Comfort Food

Rice also works brilliantly in dishes that feel a little more indulgent. Risotto is the obvious choice, but you could also make creamy baked rice, stuffed aubergines, jambalaya, or a warming rice casserole.

For something even simpler, cook rice in stock rather than water and stir through herbs, roasted garlic, lemon zest, or grated Parmesan before serving.

Don’t Forget Dessert

Rice does not have to be savoury. Traditional rice pudding is one of the easiest ways to turn a basic ingredient into a comforting dessert.

Cook it slowly with milk, sugar and vanilla, then serve it with cinnamon, fruit, jam or a spoonful of caramel sauce.

With a few new recipes and ingredients in your cupboard, rice can become far more than a side dish. It is affordable, versatile, and adaptable enough to work across countless cuisines, making it one of the easiest ingredients to get creative with.