Name: Asian Rice
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups jasmine rice; 3 cups water; 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 2 green onions thinly sliced

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As I sat down for dinner one night, I couldn’t shake the craving for some comforting and satisfying food. That’s when I thought of Asian Rice. A classic in many Asian households, this dish is not just a side but a canvas for flavors and textures. It reminds me of warm family gatherings, where each bite is infused with love and nostalgia. The gentle aroma of jasmine rice wafting through the kitchen brings back memories of my grandmother’s cooking, and how she always insisted that we savor every mouthful. Whether it’s paired with savory stir-fries or simply enjoyed on its own, Asian Rice has a way of making any meal feel complete.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
210 kcal

Protein:
4 g

Diet:
Vegan, Low FODMAP

Fat:
1 g

Tools Used:
Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan, Chef’s Knife, Saucepan, Large Pot

The Charm of This Asian Rice

Culinary Versatility

One of the most remarkable aspects of Asian Rice is its versatility. It beautifully complements a range of dishes, from stir-fried vegetables to grilled meats. You can serve it at any meal, and it fits in perfectly, whether it’s a casual lunch or a festive dinner.

Flavorful Simplicity

This recipe is refreshingly simple, yet bursting with flavor. The combination of low-sodium soy sauce and sesame oil elevates the taste of the rice without overwhelming it. This simplicity allows the dish to shine while enhancing your main courses.

Health Benefits

Using jasmine rice is more than just a flavor preference. Jasmine rice is known for its fragrant aroma and slightly nutty flavor, and it’s also a good source of carbohydrates. When prepared with care, Asian Rice can be a wholesome addition to your diet, providing energy for your day.

Quick Preparation

On busy nights when time is of the essence, Asian Rice can be a lifesaver. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a delicious side dish ready in no time. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something quick yet satisfying.

Comfort Food Vibes

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of rice. It fills you up and brings a sense of warmth and satisfaction. Asian Rice is no exception; it feels like a warm hug on a plate that connects you to home.

Garnish for Presentation

Finally, garnishing your Asian Rice with fresh green onions not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of freshness. It’s a small touch that transforms the dish visually and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Shopping List for Asian Rice

The ingredients for Asian Rice are not only simple but also work beautifully together to create a harmonious dish. Each component plays a vital role in enhancing the flavor and texture. The star, of course, is the jasmine rice, which has a fragrant aroma and a slightly sticky texture when cooked. The addition of low-sodium soy sauce and sesame oil brings depth and richness, while kosher salt helps to elevate the overall taste. Lastly, the green onions not only add color but also a fresh bite that balances the dish.

1 1/2 cups jasmine rice: The base of this dish, known for its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture.
3 cups water: Essential for cooking the rice to the perfect tenderness.

1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce: Adds umami and savory depth without excessive sodium.
1 teaspoon sesame oil: Imparts a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the rice.
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the taste of the rice.

2 green onions, thinly sliced: Provides a fresh garnish and vibrant color.

How to Prepare Asian Rice

Preparing Asian Rice is a straightforward process that yields delightful results. I love the simplicity of the steps, making it perfect for even the busiest of evenings. Let’s dive into the details of how to create this delicious dish together!

Start by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water. This step is crucial as it removes excess starch, which can make the rice gummy. Rinse until the water runs clear, indicating that the starch has been washed away. This will help you achieve fluffy, separate grains.

Next, take a medium saucepan and combine the rinsed jasmine rice and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. This initial boiling phase is important as it kickstarts the cooking process.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan with a lid and let it simmer gently for 18 minutes. During this time, avoid lifting the lid to keep the steam trapped inside, which is essential for cooking the rice evenly.
After the cooking time, check if the water has been absorbed and the rice is tender. If so, remove the saucepan from heat. If you find that the rice needs a little more cooking, you can add a splash of water and allow it to sit covered until it reaches the desired consistency.

Now, it’s time to add flavor! Drizzle the low-sodium soy sauce and sesame oil over the cooked rice. The soy sauce adds a savory note, while the sesame oil brings a richness that enhances the overall dish.
Next, sprinkle in the kosher salt to taste. This will elevate the flavors and make the rice truly delicious. Use a fork to fluff the rice, ensuring the seasonings are evenly distributed.
Finally, garnish your Asian Rice with the thinly sliced green onions. This final touch not only adds visual appeal but also a refreshing crunch that complements the dish beautifully.

Serve your Asian Rice warm, and enjoy the comforting flavors that will surely bring a smile to your face!

Things Worth Knowing

Rinsing rice: Always rinse jasmine rice to remove excess starch. This is key for achieving a fluffy texture.
Water ratio: The standard ratio is typically 1 part rice to 2 parts water, but this can vary by preference and rice type.

Simmering covered: Keeping the lid on while simmering ensures that the steam cooks the rice evenly.
Letting it rest: After cooking, letting the rice sit covered for a few minutes can enhance the texture further.

Pro Tips and Tweaks

When it comes to perfecting your Asian Rice, here are some pro tips to elevate your dish even further:

Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of water to restore moisture.
Freezing: You can freeze Asian Rice in individual portions. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer bags.
Pairing: This rice goes wonderfully with stir-fried vegetables, grilled chicken, or steamed fish for a complete meal.

Variations: Feel free to add peas, carrots, or bell peppers to the rice during cooking for extra flavor and nutrition.
Serving suggestions: Top with a fried egg for a delicious breakfast twist!

Best Served With

When it comes to enjoying Asian Rice, the possibilities are endless. Here are some suggestions on how to serve it:

Stir-fry dishes: Pair it with your favorite stir-fried vegetables and protein for a complete meal.
Grilled meats: Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish, allowing the flavors of the rice to complement the smoky notes of the grilled dishes.
Soup side: Use Asian Rice as a side to a warm, comforting soup—think wonton or egg drop soup.

Vegetarian options: It pairs beautifully with dishes like tofu stir-fry or veggie curries.
Seasonal meals: This rice is fantastic for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to holiday feasts!

FAQ

The best type of rice for making Asian Rice is jasmine rice. This fragrant rice is known for its fluffy texture and slightly nutty flavor, which makes it a perfect base for many Asian dishes. If you’re looking for a similar substitute, you might also consider basmati rice, but jasmine rice is truly the best for authentic flavor.

Yes, you can make Asian Rice in advance. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just remember to cool it completely before storing it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheat it with a splash of water in the microwave to restore its moisture.

Asian Rice pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. You can serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables, grilled chicken, or even as a base for delicious curries. Its versatility makes it a great accompaniment to many Asian-inspired meals, adding that perfect touch to your dining experience.

To enhance the flavor of your Asian Rice, consider adding aromatics like minced garlic or ginger while cooking. You can also mix in some frozen peas or diced carrots for extra texture and taste. Drizzling a bit more soy sauce or sesame oil just before serving can also elevate the overall flavor.

Conclusion

In summary, Asian Rice is a dish that brings comfort and versatility to any table. With its fragrant aroma and satisfying texture, it’s a dish you can rely on for any occasion. I encourage you to give this simple recipe a try tonight. You’ll find it’s a delightful addition to your meal rotation that everyone will love!

Asian Rice

The ultimate comfort food, Asian Rice is fluffy, fragrant, and incredibly easy to make. Perfect as a side for your favorite Asian dishes or as a simple meal on its own, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. Make this delicious dish tonight!

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 20

Total Time 25

Course Side Dishes

Cuisine Asian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 210 kcal

Equipment

Mixing Bowl
Frying Pan
Chef's Knife
Saucepan
Large Pot

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups jasmine rice
3 cups water
1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
2 green onions thinly sliced

Instructions

Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, which helps in making the rice fluffy.
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Remove the saucepan from heat. Drizzle the soy sauce and sesame oil over the cooked rice, add the kosher salt, and fluff with a fork to mix the seasonings evenly throughout the rice.

Garnish the Asian rice with thinly sliced green onions before serving.

Notes

Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of water to restore moisture.
Freezing: You can freeze Asian Rice in individual portions. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer bags.

Pairing: This rice goes wonderfully with stir-fried vegetables, grilled chicken, or steamed fish for a complete meal.
Variations: Feel free to add peas, carrots, or bell peppers to the rice during cooking for extra flavor and nutrition.
Serving suggestions: Top with a fried egg for a delicious breakfast twist!