Grain, Cereal | Vegan Gluten Free Low Fat

Rice

Oryza sativa Allergen-Free
rice

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Poaceae
  • Primary Cuisine East Asian, South Asian, Latin American, Middle Eastern
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Rice plant (Oryza sativa)

The Forktionary Angle

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

Definition

A staple grain, cultivated worldwide, known for its versatile culinary applications and various types like white, brown, and wild.

Sensory Profile

TasteMild, Neutral, Earthy (brown)
TextureFluffy, Chewy, Sticky (depending on type)
AromaSubtle, Nutty (brown)
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Global Production (million metric tons/year)

~500 (paddy rice)

Leading Producing Country

China (followed by India)

Starch Type

Amylose & Amylopectin ratio determines texture

Nutrition Facts

Per 45g (1/4 cup dry)
Calories130
Total Fat0.3g
Saturated Fat0.1g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol0
Protein2.7g
Total Carbohydrate28.2g
Dietary Fiber0.4g
Total Sugars0.1g
Calcium10mg
Iron0.2mg
Potassium55mg

Chef’s Secret

Rinse rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch, preventing stickiness and ensuring fluffier grains. For perfect rice, use the absorption method.

Substitutions

Best Match

Couscous

1:1

Similar fluffy texture and neutral flavor, cooks much faster.

Quinoa

1:1

Good for gluten-free and higher protein, slightly nuttier flavor.

Orzo Pasta

1:1

Pasta shaped like rice, works well in soups and as a side dish.

Bulgur Wheat

1:1

Chewy texture, nutty flavor, requires soaking or quick cooking.

Buying Guide

Available in various forms (white, brown, basmati, jasmine) at all grocery stores. Store in a cool, dry place.

Flavor Pairings

Almost any savory dish curries stir-fries stews vegetables proteins.

Recipes Using Rice

Healthy 2 Low In Something Dinner Party Dietary

2Bleu's Lemony Rice With Peas Risi E Bisi

This vibrant and refreshing 10-minute Risi e Bisi recipe is the perfect side dish! A zesty blend of lemony rice, sweet peas, and crunchy nuts (walnuts, pecans, pine nuts, or sunflower seeds – your choice!), it's a delightful accompaniment to grilled fish, roasted meats, or even as a light vegetarian meal. A fantastic way to use up leftover rice, this recipe is bursting with flavor and easy to customize.

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Equipment Easy Mexican Crock Pot Slow Cooker

9 To 5 Mexican Crock Pot Chicken

Need a delicious and easy weeknight dinner after a long day? This 9 to 5 Mexican Crock-Pot Chicken recipe is your answer! Slow-cooked to perfection, this tender chicken simmers in a rich, zesty sauce, perfect for tacos, burritos, or served over rice and lettuce. Minimal prep, maximum flavor – get ready to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort!

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Rice 3 Steps Or Less Easy 30 Minutes Or Less

Almond Rice Mix

Surprise your loved ones with this heartwarming Almond Rice Mix, a perfect homemade gift! This creamy and nutty recipe is surprisingly easy to make and offers a comforting, flavorful dish. Perfect for a cozy night in or a thoughtful present, this recipe is sure to impress.

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Dietary Vegetarian Brazilian Egg Free

Arroz Brasileiro Brazilian Rice

Authentic Brazilian Rice recipe – a vibrant and flavorful side dish! This recipe, inspired by the PBS series "World of Cooking," is quick, easy, and perfect for adding a taste of Brazil to your table. Learn how to make fluffy, perfectly seasoned rice in just 40 minutes!

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Side Dishes Mexican 30 Minutes Or Less Preparation

Arroz Con Chile Verde Green Chile Rice

Spice up your next Mexican feast with this quick and easy Arroz Con Chile Verde recipe! This vibrant green chile rice is ready in under 30 minutes and bursting with flavor. Perfect as a side dish or a light main course.

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Taste Mood Easy Central American Taste Mood

Arroz Con Gandules Rice And Beans

Experience the vibrant flavors of Puerto Rico with this authentic Arroz con Gandules recipe! This savory rice and pigeon peas dish is a beloved staple, bursting with the rich tastes of sofrito, ham, and olives. A comforting classic with many variations across Spanish-speaking countries, this version captures the true essence of Puerto Rican cuisine. Easy to follow instructions make this a perfect weeknight meal.

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Comfort Food Presentation 4 Hours Or Less Central American

Arroz Con Pollo Mi Favorito

This foolproof Arroz Con Pollo recipe tastes like comforting homemade goodness, yet is elegant enough for a dinner party! Impress your guests with this vibrant, flavorful Spanish-style chicken and rice dish. Tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a medley of colorful vegetables create a culinary masterpiece.

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Cuisine Dietary Meat Chicken

Asian Chicken Cabbage Rolls

Juicy Asian Chicken Cabbage Rolls bursting with flavor! This family-friendly recipe is packed with tender chicken, savory vegetables, and a tangy, sweet sauce. Inspired by a Canadian chicken farmer's flyer, this recipe is budget-friendly, nutritious, and incredibly delicious. Serves 6. Prep time: 30 minutes.

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European Medium Grain Rice Pasta Rice And Grains Cuisine

Auntie's Armenian Rice Pilaf

This isn't just a rice pilaf recipe; it's a taste of Armenian heritage and family tradition. Passed down through generations, this simple yet profoundly flavorful pilaf was a cornerstone of my childhood, served alongside everything from hearty roasts to summer BBQs. Forget fancy additions – this recipe captures the pure essence of Armenian pilaf, the way Auntie S made it. Experience the nutty aroma and perfectly tender rice that will transport you straight to a family dinner table filled with love and laughter. Prepare to make this your new go-to side dish, perfect for any occasion!

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30 Minutes Or Less Equipment Shrimp Main Ingredient

Bahian Spicy Shrimp

Savor the fiery flavors of Brazil with this authentic Bahian Spicy Shrimp recipe! A vibrant blend of aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and succulent shrimp simmered in creamy coconut milk. Customize the spice level to your liking – from a gentle warmth to a fiery kick. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Serve over fluffy rice for a truly unforgettable taste of Bahia!

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Low Sodium Dietary Easy Low Sodium

Baked Rice Custard

Indulge in this creamy and comforting baked rice custard, a classic dessert with a delightful cinnamon twist! This adapted recipe delivers a rich, subtly sweet custard infused with the comforting flavors of rice and vanilla. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight treat.

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Vegetarian Preparation Time To Make Vegetables

Baked Stuffed Tomatoes

Juicy, bursting-with-flavor baked stuffed tomatoes! This recipe is perfect for showcasing the taste of fresh, homegrown tomatoes. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, it's a summer dinner star.

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Time To Make One Dish Meal Main Dish Course

Bean And Rice Stuffed Red Bell Peppers Crock Pot

A vibrant and hearty vegetarian stuffed pepper recipe, perfect for a crowd-pleasing Father's Day dinner or any weeknight meal! This simple, make-ahead dish features tender red bell peppers filled with a flavorful mix of beans, rice, and chili, slow-cooked to perfection in your crock-pot. Customize it to your spice preference and enjoy a delicious, healthy meal the whole family will love.

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Whole Chicken Main Dish Main Ingredient Preparation

Beauchamp's Stuffed Szechuan Chicken

A family favorite for over 20 years, this authentic Szechuan Clay Pot Chicken recipe is a winter warmer that will impress! Originally gifted by a friend, this recipe features a flavorful blend of spices and a surprisingly delicious stuffing. Don't be intimidated by the ingredients – this updated version offers clear instructions and precise measurements for a culinary adventure you'll savor. Perfect for a dinner party or a cozy night in. Get ready for a taste explosion!

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Asian Asian Main Ingredient Time To Make

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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Taste Mood Occasion Eggs Taste Mood

Best Copycat Benihana Japanese Chicken Rice

Craving that amazing Benihana chicken rice? This copycat recipe recreates the magic of that savory, fluffy rice served hot after their famous onion soup. Discover the secret ingredient that makes this recipe authentically Benihana-inspired! Perfect as a satisfying appetizer or side dish, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen. Get ready to impress your family and friends!

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Technique Easy Asian Stir Fry

Best Of The Best Fried Rice

Craving restaurant-quality fried rice without the hassle? This recipe combines the best elements from top-rated recipes, delivering a simple, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying dish in just 25 minutes! Using readily available ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests. Get ready to experience the ultimate fried rice!

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Meat Main Ingredient Cuisine Chicken

Southern Chicken Curry

This surprisingly delicious Southern Chicken Curry recipe is a secret from a Mississippi restaurant! Forget everything you think you know about Southern cooking – this creamy, aromatic curry boasts a rich, flavorful sauce you'll crave. The key is high-quality curry powder, which brings depth and complexity. Served with shredded coconut and chopped green onions, it's a culinary adventure you won't forget. Get ready to lick your plate clean!

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