Any other rice lovers out there?
I LOVE rice. It’s one of my favorite foods to eat.
If you want to make me happy, give me any meal with a side of rice and I’ll love you forever!
But my love for rice isn’t just because of how delicious it is. Growing up I have memories of spending quality time at the dinner table with my family and there was almost always a rice dish present. We’d laugh, share stories and enjoy a nice meal together and there’s nothing else that could have made that moment better.
I associate rice with love, good moments and peace. That is why I’ve rounded up 11 delicious rice recipes and side dishes for you to try next time you’re in the kitchen. I hope they fill your stomach (and your heart) with lots of joy and happiness! Bon appetit!
1. Easy White Biryani
I had some at my best friend’s house a few years ago and absolutely fell in love!!
As a rice lover, I love the combination of fluffy white rice and tender, beautifully seasoned chicken.
Also, I just love all the spices in this recipe. It’s a guaranteed flavor fest for you and whoever gets to enjoy this awesome dish!
Here’s the recipe: Easy White Biryani
2. Vegan Thai Basil Fried Rice
This is a simple but delicious dish.
It’s also super nutritious thanks to the bok choy (rich in vitamins C, K, A and minerals and fiber), mushrooms and other veggies included.
Here’s the recipe: Vegan Thai Basil Fried Rice
3. Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice
A straightforward fried rice recipe with a special twist.
Ever since I tried pineapple fried rice a few years ago, it’s become one of my fav variations of fried rice.
The chicken adds savor to the dish while the pineapple brings some sweetness to it. Overall, it all works wonderfully together and I highly recommend.
Here’s the recipe: Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice
4. Ground Beef with Rice
I couldn’t write this roundup without including a ground beef and rice recipe!
There are many ways you could match ground beef and rice. But I really like how quick and fuss-free this recipe is.
Also, A+ with the touch of sriracha!
Here’s the recipe: Ground Beef with Rice
5. One Pot Chicken and Rice
Chicken and rice is just such an amazing combo!
It’s one of the best, heartiest meals you can share with your loved ones.
Also, the fact that it’s all made in one pot means it’s super convenient aka…less dishes to clean up after!!
Here’s the recipe: One Pot Chicken and Rice
6. Yaki Onigiri (Japanese Grilled Rice Balls)
A friend from high school introduced me to this one.
I usually eat my rice the traditional way (as a side or main dish) but this is such an original dish and it’s so yummy!
Here’s the recipe: Yaki Onigiri
7. Egg Fried Rice
This is a timeless classic but always a winner at any table.
And what I love about this is you can get really creative with it. You can add any type of meat to it, pineapple like in the recipe above or you can just eat it as is! Sometimes you don’t need to do too much!
Here’s the recipe: Egg Fried Rice
8. Mushroom Rice
I just love how there are all these different ways to eat rice that I had no clue about!
This recipe is just bursting with flavor. The mushrooms add much earthiness to the dish which may sound a bit weird at first but tastes a lot better than you’d expect!
Here’s the recipe: Mushroom Rice
9. Turmeric Rice
I add turmeric to everything these days but somehow never thought of adding it to rice before.
This is a very interesting recipe ( in a good way!). I love the yellow color of the rice thanks to the turmeric and the cinnamon, cardamom and cloves bring tons of flavor and originality to an otherwise simple rice dish.
Here’s the recipe: Turmeric Rice
10.Cajun Sausage and Rice with Beans
A must-try comfort food in my opinion.
Honestly for me, with any rice recipe, the heartier, the better. And with the sausage, beans and all the seasonings, this recipe more than delivers.
Here’s the recipe: Cajun Sausage & Rice with Beans
11. Saffron Rice with Golden Raisins and Pine Nuts
I feel adding saffron to anything makes it sound so much fancier no?
Anyway, a simple, super fragrant recipe with lots of other aromas that you could play around with (ex: cinnamon, cardamom). I also love the sweet touch with the raisins.
Here’s the recipe: Saffron Rice
