Steaming rice to perfection can be a daunting task, but with the right techniques and flavor combinations, it’s a game-changer for any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a quick weeknight solution, having a repertoire of delicious steamed rice recipes is essential. From savory and spicy to sweet and herby, there are countless ways to elevate this humble grain. In this article, we’ll explore 19 mouth-watering steamed rice recipes that cater to every taste and occasion.
Garlic Butter Steamed Jasmine Rice
Transform plain jasmine rice into a flavorful side dish with the aromatic combination of garlic and butter. This simple recipe is perfect for accompanying your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup jasmine rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the jasmine rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
4. While the rice cooks, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
5. Fluff the cooked jasmine rice with a fork and stir in the garlic butter mixture. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Milk Steamed Basmati Rice
Elevate your rice game with this creamy and aromatic recipe that combines the nutty flavor of basmati rice with the richness of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed.
4. Stir in the coconut milk, vegetable oil, and salt.
5. Cover and steam for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the rice is fluffy and creamy.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Herbed Lemon Steamed Brown Rice
Elevate your side dish game with this flavorful and aromatic herbed lemon steamed brown rice recipe, perfect for accompanying a variety of main courses. This recipe combines the comforting warmth of brown rice with the bright, citrusy zing of lemon and the subtle herbaceousness of thyme.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the brown rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed brown rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
3. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, olive oil, thyme, and salt to taste.
4. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Szechuan Steamed Rice
This recipe adds a bold kick to traditional steamed rice by incorporating the flavors of Szechuan peppercorns and chili flakes. Perfect as a side dish or as a base for various Asian-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, water, Szechuan peppercorns, and chili flakes.
3. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
4. In a small pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the salt and stir to combine.
5. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and mix in the salted oil.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetable Medley Steamed Rice
A flavorful and nutritious rice dish packed with a colorful medley of vegetables, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and snap peas)
– Salt to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or sesame oil for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Rinse rice in a fine-mesh strainer and combine with water in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until water is absorbed and rice is cooked.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender (5-6 minutes). Season with salt to taste.
5. Fluff cooked rice with a fork. Stir in vegetable mixture and optional soy sauce or sesame oil (if using).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Steamed Rice Bowl
This classic Japanese-inspired dish combines tender chicken, savory teriyaki sauce, and fluffy steamed rice in a delightful bowl. With this simple recipe, you’ll be enjoying a flavorful meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups cooked steamed rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, green beans)
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce and chicken pieces until coated.
3. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Steam rice according to package instructions or using a rice cooker.
5. Serve chicken on top of steamed rice, garnished with mixed vegetables, sesame seeds, and chopped scallions (if desired).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Kimchi Fried Steamed Rice
This Korean-inspired dish combines the comfort of steamed rice with the bold flavors of kimchi and savory fried ingredients. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful lunch, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, peas, corn)
– Salt to taste
– Optional: 1 egg, beaten; 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add mixed vegetables and cooked kimchi; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Fluff cooked rice with a fork, then add to the skillet. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, breaking up any clumps.
5. Season with salt to taste. If desired, add beaten egg and scramble until cooked through. Drizzle with sesame oil (optional).
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional kimchi if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Curry Infused Steamed Rice
Elevate your mealtime with a flavorful twist on traditional steamed rice. This simple recipe infuses the rice with a warm and aromatic curry flavor, perfect for accompanying your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder (adjust to taste)
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, water, salt, and vegetable oil. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
4. While the rice cooks, mix the curry powder into the remaining 1/2 cup of water in a small bowl.
5. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains. Stir in the curry-infused water and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Savory Mushroom Steamed Rice
Elevate your meal with this flavorful side dish that combines the earthy taste of mushrooms with the comfort of steamed rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to combine with the mushroom mixture.
6. Add the water and thyme to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
7. Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Sweet Pineapple Steamed Rice
Sweet Pineapple Steamed Rice Recipe
This sweet and savory rice dish is perfect as a side or main course. The addition of pineapple chunks adds natural sweetness and a pop of color to the dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, pineapple juice, honey, and salt. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
4. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in the melted butter and pineapple chunks.
5. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Thai Basil Steamed Jasmine Rice
This aromatic rice dish is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite Thai-inspired meals. Infused with the fragrance of fresh basil and the subtle sweetness of jasmine, this flavorful side dish will elevate your dining experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked jasmine rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh Thai basil leaves, chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the oil and mix with the onion and garlic.
5. Add the water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Stir in chopped Thai basil leaves and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mexican Lime and Cilantro Steamed Rice
Mexican Lime and Cilantro Steamed Rice Recipe
A flavorful twist on traditional steamed rice, this recipe combines the brightness of lime juice with the freshness of cilantro to create a delicious side dish that complements a variety of Mexican-inspired dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the rice and stir to coat with oil. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Add the water, chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Mediterranean Olive and Herb Steamed Rice
Bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table with this flavorful steamed rice dish, infused with the savory goodness of olives and herbs. Perfect as a side or base for your favorite Mediterranean-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
3. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork.
4. Heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced olives, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 minutes or until the herbs are fragrant.
5. Mix the cooked rice with the olive and herb mixture. If using garlic, mince it and add to the rice mixture.
6. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Japanese Furikake Steamed Rice
Elevate your rice game with this simple recipe that combines the savory flavors of furikake with perfectly cooked steamed rice. This classic Japanese side dish is a staple in many households and pairs well with a variety of dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Japanese short-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon furikake seasoning (available at most Asian grocery stores or online)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice thoroughly and combine it with 2 cups of water in a medium saucepan.
2. Add the salt and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid.
4. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until all the water has been absorbed and the rice is cooked.
5. Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork and mix in the furikake seasoning.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Indian Spiced Steamed Basmati Rice
Transform plain basmati rice into a flavorful and aromatic dish with the addition of Indian spices. This recipe is perfect for accompanying your favorite Indian dishes or as a side to complement any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 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 the water and set the rice aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the ghee or oil over medium heat. Add the cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
3. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the spice mixture.
4. Add the water to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caribbean Coconut and Bean Steamed Rice
Experience the flavors of the Caribbean with this aromatic and nutritious side dish. This simple recipe combines creamy coconut milk, flavorful beans, and fluffy steamed rice for a delicious accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt to taste
– 2 tablespoons coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
3. While the rice cooks, heat the oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the ginger, cumin, and shredded coconut; cook, stirring occasionally, until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
4. Stir in the cooked beans and coconut milk. Cook for an additional minute to combine.
5. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in the bean and coconut mixture. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vietnamese Lemongrass Steamed Rice
This fragrant and flavorful rice dish is a staple in Vietnamese cuisine, perfect as a side or as a base for other dishes. With the addition of lemongrass, it adds a bright and citrusy note that complements many flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or jasmine rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised and cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
4. While the rice is cooking, heat the oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the lemongrass pieces and cook, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
5. Once the rice is cooked, fluff with a fork and stir in the cooked lemongrass mixture. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Moroccan Saffron Steamed Rice
Experience the exotic flavors of Morocco with this aromatic rice dish, infused with the luxurious essence of saffron.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup long-grain white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the drained rice, 2 cups of fresh water, saffron with its soaking liquid, and olive oil. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and steam for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
4. Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Truffle Oil Infused Steamed Rice
Elevate your rice game with this simple recipe that combines the earthy flavor of truffle oil with the comfort of steamed rice. Perfect as a side dish or used as a base for various dishes, this infused rice is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon truffle oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the truffle oil.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Let it rest for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your mealtime with these 19 flavorful steamed rice recipes! From classic garlic butter to international twists like Thai basil and Moroccan saffron, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a simple side dish or a main event, these recipes are sure to please. With ingredients ranging from coconut milk to truffle oil, these dishes will add a new level of excitement to your table. So go ahead, get creative, and serve up a steaming hot plate of flavor!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
