Rice

*Oryza sativa* (Asian rice) or *Oryza glaberrima* (African rice) Grain, Cereal, Staple

Rice Grain, Cereal, Staple

At a Glance

  • Category Grain, Cereal, Staple

The Forktionary Angle

"The humble grain that powers civilizations and forms the backbone of countless global cuisines."

Definition

A staple grain worldwide, offering versatile culinary uses from side dishes to main courses, rich in carbohydrates and available in many varieties.

Global Production (million metric tons/year) ~500 (paddy rice)
Leading Producing Country China (followed by India)
Starch Type Amylose & Amylopectin ratio determines texture

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Rice are:

Neutral earthy nutty (depending on variety)

Chef’s Secret

Toasting dry rice grains lightly in a pan with a little oil before adding liquid enhances their nutty flavor and creates a firmer texture.

Best Substitutes

Quinoa

for texture/protein
Ratio 1:1

couscous

for quick cooking
Ratio 1:1

barley

for hearty dishes
Ratio 1:1

farro

for chewy texture
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Choose based on desired starch content and cooking outcome (e.g., long-grain for fluffy, short-grain for sticky). Store in airtight containers.

Recipes Using Rice

Saltwater Fish High In Something High Protein 60 Minutes Or Less

Baklava Salmon Salmon With Honey Butter Walnuts And Mustard

Experience a flavor explosion with this unique salmon recipe! Sweet honey, tangy mustard, and crunchy walnuts create an irresistible topping that's reminiscent of baklava – hence the fun name! Flaky salmon fillets are baked to perfection and served with a vibrant side of rice and steamed vegetables. This 30-minute meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

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Egg Free Cuisine Low Saturated Fat 60 Minutes Or Less

Arroz De Mexico Mexican Rice

A vibrant and flavorful Mexican rice recipe, perfect for a healthy and delicious weeknight meal! This low-fat version of Arroz De Mexico is bursting with fresh vegetables and traditional spices. Enjoy this easy-to-make recipe that's ready in under an hour.

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Oven Broccoli Rice Preparation

Broccoli Rice Casserole

This classic broccoli rice casserole recipe is the one I grew up with! Creamy, cheesy, and comforting, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser guaranteed to become a family favorite. Forget those bland casseroles – this one is bursting with flavor and incredibly easy to make. Get ready for cheesy perfection!

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Time To Make Pork Stove Top Chinese

Barbecued Pork Fried Rice

Craving restaurant-quality fried rice? This recipe delivers! Using delicious Chinese barbecued pork, this easy-to-follow recipe is ready in minutes. Elevate your weeknight meal with a taste of authentic flavor. Customize it with your favorite veggies – frozen peas, bean sprouts, or carrots – for a personalized touch. Inspired by renowned chef Dorothy Huang!

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Indian Soups Stews Cuisine Indian

Authentic Mulligatawny Soup

Discover the rich, aromatic flavors of authentic Indian Mulligatawny Soup! This family-favorite recipe, adapted from "The Food of India," delivers a creamy, subtly spiced delight. Perfect for a cozy night in or impressing guests, this isn't your average soup – it's a culinary journey to India. Prepare for a taste sensation that will leave you wanting more!

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Main Dish Stove Top White Rice Toddler Friendly

Arroz Con Gandules

Experience the vibrant flavors of Puerto Rico with this authentic Arroz con Gandules recipe! A hearty and flavorful one-pot dish, perfect as a satisfying main course or a delicious side. This recipe boasts tender rice, savory pigeon peas, and a delightful blend of spices. Easy to follow instructions make this a perfect weeknight meal for both seasoned cooks and beginners alike.

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Preparation Dietary Asian Technique

Beef Tomato

A flavorful and easy-to-make Beef Tomato stir-fry recipe, inspired by a Japanese college roommate's secret family recipe! This dish boasts tender beef, perfectly sautéed vegetables, and a rich, savory gravy – all ready in under an hour. Get ready for a taste of Japan in your kitchen!

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Preparation Dietary Cuisine Central American

Arroz Con Pollo Rice With Chicken

This vibrant Arroz con Pollo recipe is a testament to resourceful cooking! Inspired by a neighbor's ingenuity during a kitchen renovation, this dish uses a BBQ and wok burner for a unique outdoor cooking experience. Enjoy tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice bursting with flavor in just 70 minutes. A simple yet incredibly delicious meal, perfect for weeknights or a fun weekend cookout.

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Occasion Main Ingredient 30 Minutes Or Less Pasta Rice And Grains

Almond Rice Pilaf Instant Rice

This incredibly easy Almond Rice Pilaf recipe uses instant rice for a speedy weeknight meal! Perfectly nutty and fluffy, it's the ideal side dish for beef fondue (as originally suggested by Soup Central!) or any other protein. Elevate your dinner routine in just 17 minutes!

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60 Minutes Or Less Meat Time To Make Chicken Breasts

Baked Pineapple Chicken

Sweet, savory, and spicy! This Baked Pineapple Chicken recipe is a flavor explosion that's surprisingly easy to make. Minimal prep time (excluding marinating) means you can enjoy this delicious dish without spending hours in the kitchen. The secret? A vibrant marinade featuring garlic, sweet red chili sauce, and juicy pineapple that delivers an unforgettable zing. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Serve over fluffy rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

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Asian 4 Hours Or Less Vegetables Cuisine

Beef With Fresh Asparagus

This vibrant Beef with Fresh Asparagus stir-fry recipe delivers a burst of umami and fresh spring flavors. Inspired by a cherished family recipe, this dish is easily customizable to your spice preference. Tender beef marinated in a savory soy sauce mixture is perfectly complemented by crisp-tender asparagus and carrots. A quick and easy weeknight meal the whole family will love!

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Preparation Pasta Rice And Grains Low Cholesterol Dietary

Arroz Mexicana Mexican Rice

Craveable Arroz Mexicana! This vibrant Mexican rice recipe is a family favorite, transforming picky eaters into rice lovers. Made with fresh corn and peas (when in season!), it's bursting with flavor and far surpasses any boxed version. This recipe features a perfectly balanced blend of spices and tender rice. Get ready for a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine that's quick, easy, and incredibly delicious!

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30 Minutes Or Less Occasion Dinner Party Beans

Beef With Black Bean Sauce

Craving that authentic, thick, and flavorful black bean sauce from your favorite Chinese takeout? This recipe delivers! Unlike other thin black bean sauce recipes, this one focuses on creating a rich, abundant sauce that perfectly coats tender beef. Our unconventional method makes it incredibly easy and fast, ensuring your beef stays juicy while the sauce thickens to perfection. Customize it with your favorite stir-fry vegetables – we've included suggestions! Serve over fluffy rice for a truly satisfying meal. Adjust the black bean paste for a milder flavor if desired.

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Low In Something Main Ingredient Vegetables Healthy

Beef Tomato Chow Yuk

Experience the sizzling flavors of Beef Tomato Chow Yuk! This quick and easy recipe delivers tender beef in a rich, savory tomato sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish is bursting with fresh vegetables and a delightful sweet and tangy taste. Get ready to impress your family with this authentic Asian-inspired stir-fry.

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Main Dish Low Carb Course Easy

Ancho Braised Pork

Fall in love with this incredibly flavorful Ancho Braised Pork recipe! Tender, slow-cooked pork is infused with the rich, smoky depth of pure ancho chile powder. Surprisingly easy to make, this warming dish fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma while it simmers. Serve over fluffy rice and garnish with fresh cilantro for a truly unforgettable meal. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion!

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Easy European Low Sodium Course

Mountain Rice Arroz Da Serra Portuguese Brazil

Discover the rich history and vibrant flavors of Brazil with this authentic Arroz da Serra recipe! A culinary fusion born from the meeting of Portuguese settlers and the Tupi-Guarani indigenous people, this mountain rice dish is a cherished part of Brazilian national cuisine. Inspired by "Cuisines of Portuguese Encounters," this recipe transports you to the heart of Brazil, offering a unique and unforgettable taste experience. Prepare to be amazed by the simple yet exquisite combination of ingredients and techniques.

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Crock Pot Slow Cooker 3 Steps Or Less Meat Summer

Basil Chicken With Feta Slow Cooker

This incredibly flavorful Basil Chicken with Feta is a slow cooker masterpiece! Adapted from Stephanie O'Dea's popular 'Year of Slow Cooking' blog, this recipe boasts juicy, tender chicken infused with vibrant basil, salty feta, and Mediterranean flavors. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a relaxed weekend, this recipe is easily customizable to your preferences. Serves 4-6.

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Poultry Dietary Poultry Course

Basque Style Chicken

This vibrant Basque-style chicken recipe from Hunt's is a simple yet elegant weeknight dinner. Tender chicken simmers in a rich tomato and wine sauce with earthy mushrooms, sweet peppers, and crisp peas, creating a flavour explosion in under an hour! Perfect for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

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