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42 Essential Rice Recipes You Can Make Any Night of the Week

Updated on March 01, 2024

If you’ve got rice in your pantry then you’re well on your way to something delicious. By adding just a few other ingredients, you can turn this versatile grain into a savory side dish, a satisfying mainor even dessert!

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Photo: Teri Lyn Fisher

Our Best Ideas for Rice

Rice is a delicious and versatile pantry staple everyone should keep on hand. And even if you don't learn how to process the plants for food at home, as that is a time-consuming process, it’s still worth knowing how to grow rice—it’s a great ornamental feature to grow alongside shrubs or even in containers on your porch. You can easily make rice part of your weeknight routine, just keep our tried-and-true cooking guide on hand so you never end up with mushy or gummy results! If using a rice cooker is more your style, we can recommend the best models on the market too. Rice can be a great side, main or even dessert. Whip up this cheesy, Tex-Mex-inspired rice casserole whenever you serve tacos or quesadillas. You won't regret it!

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Photo: Renee Comet ©

Garlic Cilantro Lime Rice

Ree’s easy trick for transforming rice into a super-flavorful side? Cook the grains in chicken stock instead of water. In this recipe, she also throws in some sautéed onion and garlic and some lime zest and juice, for good measure.

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Photo: Matt

Iranian Yellow Rice with Saffron

This sunny-hued rice gets its color from saffron. Saffron is an expensive spice, but when used properly, a little goes a long way. It lends a unique bright flavor and sweet earthy aroma. Topped with fried onions and raisins, this simple and fast side dish has a distinct Middle Eastern flair and pairs well with stews and kabobs.

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Photo: Armando Rafael

Curried Chicken and Rice Soup

Rice is the key ingredient in making this comforting chicken soup (layered with the flavors of Madras curry, cilantro and lime) hearty and satisfying.

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