Description
Discover seven easy and flavorful rice recipes that transform plain basmati rice into exciting side dishes. With simple ingredients like herbs, spices, citrus, and coconut milk, each recipe delivers a unique taste perfect for any meal. Whether you prefer herb-infused, creamy coconut, spicy salsa, or aromatic turmeric rice, these recipes are quick to prepare and cooked either on the stovetop or in a rice cooker for perfectly fluffy results.
Ingredients
Scale
Lemon Herb Rice
- 1 cup basmati rice (rinsed)
- 1 tablespoon refined coconut oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Zest of 1/2 a lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
- Juice of 1/2 a lemon (after cooking)
Creamy Coconut Rice
- 1 1/2 cups basmati rice (rinsed)
- 13.5 oz (1 can, 400 mL) coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon coconut sugar or brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/4 cups water
Saffron Rice
- 1/4 cup boiling water
- Pinch (approximately 1/8 teaspoon) saffron threads
- 1 cup basmati rice (rinsed)
- 1 tablespoon refined coconut oil
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 3/4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
Spicy Salsa Rice
- 1 cup basmati rice (rinsed)
- 1 tablespoon refined coconut oil
- 1 cup salsa
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon chipotle chili powder (or regular chili powder)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
Lime Cilantro Rice
- 1 cup basmati rice (rinsed)
- 1 tablespoon refined coconut oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Zest of 1 lime
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
- 1/2 cup cilantro leaves (after cooking)
- Juice of 1/2 a lime (after cooking)
Pesto Rice
- 1 cup basmati rice (rinsed)
- 1/4 cup pesto (plus more to serve if needed)
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
- Fresh basil leaves (after cooking)
- Sliced almonds (after cooking)
Turmeric Ginger Rice
- 1 cup basmati rice (rinsed)
- 1 tablespoon refined coconut oil
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
Instructions
- Rinse Rice: Thoroughly rinse the basmati rice under running water using a colander, or cover the rice with water in the pot, swirl gently, and carefully pour off the water. Repeat this process until the water runs clear to remove excess starch for fluffier rice.
- Combine Ingredients: In a pot or rice cooker, combine all ingredients except those noted as ‘after cooking.’ Ensure the rice is fully submerged and not sticking to the pot sides to prevent uneven cooking.
- Cook Rice: If using a rice cooker, simply press the ‘white rice’ button and let it cook. If cooking on the stovetop, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer gently for 15 minutes. After cooking, remove from heat and let it stand covered for an additional 10 minutes to let the rice finish steaming.
- Finish with Fresh Ingredients: After the rice has rested, fluff it gently with a fork. Add any fresh ingredients labeled ‘after cooking,’ such as lemon or lime juice, cilantro leaves, fresh basil, sliced almonds, or extra pesto. Mix gently to incorporate and serve warm.
Notes
- These seven simple rice recipes are designed to elevate basic basmati rice into flavorful, aromatic sides that pair well with a variety of dishes.
- Using refined coconut oil provides a neutral flavor while adding richness and helps prevent the rice from sticking.
- Saffron threads should be steeped in boiling water before adding to release their vibrant color and aroma.
- Adjust spice levels and herbs to suit your personal tastes and dietary preferences.
- Leftover rice can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently with a splash of water to retain moisture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 batch of lemon herb rice
- Calories: 206 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 617 mg
- Fat: 3 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
