The Best Rice Meals from Around the World

There are countless rice meals around the world that are absolutely delicious. From India to Thailand to Japan, each country has their own unique way of preparing this versatile grain. In this blog post, we will explore some of the best rice dishes from around the world. Whether you’re looking for a hearty Indian meal or a light and refreshing Japanese dish, we have you covered!
Biryani
Biryani is a classic Indian dish that is made with rice, spices, and meat or vegetables. The rice is usually basmati, which is a long grain rice that has a nutty flavor. The spices used in biryani can vary, but they typically include cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and bay leaves. Biryanis can be made with chicken, lamb, beef, shrimp, or vegetables. The meat or vegetables are cooked with the rice and spices, and then the whole dish is layered with saffron-infused milk and ghee. Biryani is traditionally served with raita, a yogurt-based sauce, and it can also be garnished with grilled onions, nuts, and dried fruit. While it may take some time to prepare biryani, the result is a flavorful and fragrant dish that is sure to please any crowd.
Nasi Lemak
Nasi lemak is a delicious Malaysian dish that is traditionally made with rice, coconut milk, pandan leaves, and a variety of other ingredients. The rice is cooked in the coconut milk, giving it a rich and creamy flavor. The pandan leaves add a unique fragrant aroma, while the other ingredients can vary depending on the region or family recipe. Common additions include chicken, shrimp, hard-boiled eggs, peanuts, and chili peppers. Nasi lemak is often served as breakfast or as a snack throughout the day. It can be enjoyed on its own or with a variety of side dishes, such as curry or pickled vegetables. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast to start your day or a tasty snack to tide you over, nasi lemak is sure to hit the spot.
Jambalaya
Jambalaya is a Louisiana Creole dish that is made with rice, meat, and vegetables. The dish is believed to have originated in the 18th century, when French settlers in Louisiana began to cook rice with whatever meat and vegetables they had on hand. Over time, the dish has come to be associated with the city of New Orleans, where it is often served at festivals and other special occasions. Jambalaya is typically made with either chicken or shrimp, but it can also be made with sausage or any other type of seafood. The rice is cooked in a flavorful broth, and the dish is usually spiced with cayenne pepper or Tabasco sauce. Jambalaya is a hearty and satisfying meal, and it is sure to please even the most discerning palate.
Nasi Kerabu
Nasi kerabu is a Malaysian dish that is made with blue rice, herbs, and spices. The rice is traditionally dyed with the extract of the bunga telang flower, which gives it its distinctive blue color. Nasi kerabu is often served with grilled chicken, bacon, hard-boiled eggs, and a variety of pickled vegetables. The dish is believed to have originated in the state of Kelantan, where it is still a popular favorite. Nasi kerabu is usually eaten for breakfast or lunch, but it can also be enjoyed as a light meal or snack. Whether you’re looking for a unique culinary experience or simply want to try something new, nasi kerabu is definitely worth a try.
Arroz con Pollo
Arroz con pollo is a beloved Spanish dish that has been enjoyed for generations. The dish is typically made with chicken, rice, and vegetables, and it can be adapted to suit a variety of tastes. Whether you like your chicken grilled or roasted, your rice firm or fluffy, or your vegetables crispy or stewed, there’s an arroz con pollo recipe out there for you. The dish is also relatively simple to make, which makes it a great option for busy weeknight dinners. Plus, leftovers reheat well, so you can enjoy arroz con pollo for days. If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make Spanish dish, look no further than arroz con pollo.
Paella
Paella is a dish that originated in Spain and is typically made with rice, seafood, and vegetables. The most common type of paella is Paella Valenciana, which is made with chicken, rabbit, and green beans. Other popular variations include Paella de Seafood, which is made with shrimp, calamari, and scallops, and Paella Mixta, which is made with a mix of meat and seafood. No matter what ingredients are used, the key to making a good paella is to use high-quality rice and cook it slowly over a low heat. This allows the rice to absorb the flavors of the other ingredients without becoming mushy. As a result, paella is a flavorful and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed any time of year.
Fried Rice
Fried rice is a popular dish that is made with rice, vegetables, and meat. It is believed to have originated in China, and it is now enjoyed by people all over the world. Fried rice can be made with any type of rice, but long grain rice is typically used. The rice is first cooked until it is tender, then it is stir-fried with vegetables and meat. Common additions include onions, garlic, green onions, peas, carrots, and soy sauce. Fried rice can be served as a side dish or a main course, and it is often garnished with sliced green onions or sesame seeds. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a delicious way to use up leftover rice, fried rice like Yang Zhou Fried Rice is a great option.
Risotto
Risotto is a creamy Italian dish that is made with rice, broth, and Parmesan cheese. It is traditionally cooked slowly, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors of the broth. This process also helps to create the signature creamy texture of risotto. While there are many different recipes for risotto, they all share these basic ingredients. The type of rice used is also important. A short-grain rice, such as Arborio or Carnaroli, is typically used in risotto because it has a higher starch content, which helps to create a creamy texture. Risotto can be served as a main course or as a side dish. It is often garnished with Parmesan cheese, herbs, or vegetables.
Final Thought
No matter what type of rice dish you’re in the mood for, there’s sure to be something on this list that will suit your taste. So next time you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make meal, consider one of these rice dishes from around the world. You won’t be disappointed.
This article is posted on Blog Spinners.