10 Ways with Rice – The Best Rice Dishes from Around the World

Rice – a humble grain, yet an international superstar in the culinary world. It’s a pantry staple for billions, celebrated for its adaptability and versatility. From the saffron-infused grandeur of Spanish Paella to the comforting allure of Chinese fried rice, rice dishes have earned their place on global dinner tables.

This gastronomic voyage introduces you to the top 10 most popular rice-centric marvels from around the world, each celebrating rice’s role as the star of the show.

But first, let’s explore the different types of rice as each has its place in a specific range of meals.

Exploring Rice Varieties

Rice comes in diverse varieties, each with its unique characteristics and benefits:

1. Basmati Rice: Known for its long, slender grains and fragrant aroma, Basmati rice pairs wonderfully with Indian dishes.

2. Jasmine Rice: This aromatic rice hails from Thailand, offering a subtly floral fragrance and slightly sticky texture that’s ideal for Asian cuisine.

3. Arborio Rice: A staple for creamy Italian Risotto, Arborio rice boasts a high starch content, resulting in its signature velvety consistency.

5. Short-Grain Rice: Popular in Japanese cuisine, short-grain rice is delightfully sticky, making it perfect for sushi and rice puddings.

6. Long-Grain Rice: Versatile and fluffy, long-grain rice suits a wide range of dishes, from Indian biryanis to American Cajun dishes.

7. Black Rice: Also known as forbidden rice, it offers a nutty flavour, a stunning dark hue, and a rich source of antioxidants.

8. Brown Rice: With its bran layer intact, brown rice is a healthier alternative, boasting more nutrients and a nutty taste.

9. Wild Rice: Technically a grass, wild rice provides an earthy flavour and is often mixed with other rice varieties for added texture.

10. Red Rice: Grown in several countries, red rice has a mild, nutty taste and adds visual flair to dishes with its reddish-brown colour.

Now that we know a little more about types of rice, below we celebrate some of the most popular and delicious types of rice dishes where rice is the hero, not merely an accompaniment.

1. Paella (Spain)

Our journey starts with Spain’s crown jewel, Paella. This saffron-kissed rice dish features an orchestra of ingredients: chicken, chorizo, rabbit, seafood and vegetables, all harmonising in one pan. Ingredients can be adapted to create various flavours of Paella and can be created on mass in huge Paella pans. The socarrat is a coveted layer of crispy rice at the bottom of the pan that adds an exquisite crunch to every bite.

2. Sushi (Japan)

Japan offers the artful world of sushi, where vinegared rice meets a tapestry of fresh seafood, vegetables and occasional fruits. Sushi epitomises precision and elegance, whether it’s traditional nigiri or inventive rolls.

3. Biryani (India)

India presents Biryani, a fragrant delight that unites basmati rice with marinated meat or vegetables. Biryani is infused with aromatic spices and boasts regional variations that promise a rich and diverse culinary journey.

4. Risotto (Italy)

Italy dazzles with Risotto, a creamy marvel that elevates Arborio rice with butter, wine and a medley of ingredients like mushrooms, asparagus, seafood, or saffron. It’s a luxurious testament to Italian finesse that can be served in many different flavour combinations, and leftover Risotto can be turned into Arancini balls.

5. Jollof Rice (West Africa)

West Africa’s Jollof rice, a vibrant creation, blends rice with tomatoes, peppers, onions, and an array of spices. Served during celebrations and gatherings, it symbolises unity and festivity.

6. Dolmas or Dolmades – (Greece, Turkey, Lebanon)

Dolma, also known as Dolmades or Dolmadakia, is a popular Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dish. They can be either vegetarian or meaty and comprise grape vine leaves (or cabbage leaves for the Polish version) stuffed with a flavorful mixture of rice, ground meat (usually lamb or beef), aromatic herbs and spices, cooked in a pot until the rice has expanded. These stuffed leaves are typically served with a drizzle of lemon juice and a dollop of yogurt sauce, creating a delightful combination of savoury and tangy flavours.

7. Arroz con Pollo (Latin America)

Latin America showcases Arroz con Pollo, a beloved dish that marries chicken, rice, vegetables and a tantalising spice blend. This one-pot wonder exudes homely comfort and familial warmth.

8. Pilaf (Middle East)

Middle Eastern Pilaf takes centre stage with its aromatic rice cooked with saffron and other spices, sautéed vegetables and, if desired, tender meat cuts. It’s a symphony of flavours and textures that reflects the region’s culinary heritage. Served flipped upside down with a crispy layer of rice from the bottom of the pan.

9. Nasi Goreng (Indonesia)

Nasi Goreng, a beloved Indonesian dish, is all about fragrant fried rice bursting with flavours. It features steamed rice stir-fried to perfection with a medley of ingredients, including protein options like chicken, shrimp, or tofu, aromatic spices and a mix of vegetables. What sets Nasi Goreng apart is the delectable fried egg served on top, its yolk ready to enrich every bite. The dish boasts a harmonious blend of sweet, savoury, and spicy notes, making it a flavorful delight for the senses.

10. Mexican Rice (Mexico)

Mexican rice adds a burst of flavour to our list. A zesty blend of rice, tomatoes and spices, it’s a versatile dish often enjoyed as a side or as a filling for burritos, fajitas and tacos.

There are hundreds of other ways to use rice as a main dish or as an accompaniment, although we can’t possibly list them all here.
But as experts in cooking rice, if you’d like Yum Catering to come to you and cater your next special event, then give us a call. We are rice specialists with enough Paella pans to cook for an army! Our delicious meals have satisfied many thousands of people, and we’d love to show you what we’re made of, too!