Rice is a staple food in many cultures around the world. Its versatility and ability to complement a wide variety of dishes make it an essential addition to your meal planning.

Keep reading for everything you need to know about rice, from cooking and storing to preparing delicious dishes!

To Rinse or Not to Rinse?

One of the most common questions that arise when cooking rice is whether to rinse it or not. The answer depends on the type of rice and your personal preference. Rinsing rice involves washing it thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch. 

Benefits of Rinsing

• Rinsing rice can help remove surface starch, preventing it from becoming overly sticky. This is particularly useful when making dishes like fried rice or sushi.

• Rinsing and soaking can also help reduce arsenic levels in rice, which is a concern in some regions due to soil contamination.

• Soaking rice before cooking can lead to a fluffier and more evenly cooked result.

If you choose to rinse or soak your rice, check out this mesh sieve for easy washing! This mesh sieve is great for smaller amounts, or you can get a 3 pack here! I like to use the small size for matcha to get the lumps out, or you can use it to steep loose tea leaves. These strainers also work great for beans, quinoa, and other grains and legumes.

My Favorite Rice Recipes

1. Edamame Dill Rice

This flavorful recipe combines the nuttiness of rice with the freshness of edamame and dill. It's a delightful side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken or fish. Try the recipe here.

2. Coconut Rice

Coconut rice is a fragrant and slightly sweet dish that's popular in many Asian cuisines. It's made with coconut milk, giving it a rich and creamy texture. For this recipe, I always use the stovetop method. I’ve found that it usually burns in the instant pot. If I have fresh ginger in my fridge, I like to cut a chunk and place it in the rice pot (skin and all) while cooking for a little ginger essence. Pair it with your favorite curry, seafood, or my fave Miso Maple Salmon or Chicken!

3. Golden Rice

This rice recipe is infused with the warm flavors of garlic and turmeric (I add a clove or two of minced garlic to the linked recipe!). Turmeric adds a vibrant yellow color and an earthy flavor to the dish. It’s wonderful with grilled vegetables or roasted meats!

4. Cilantro Lime Rice

Cilantro lime rice is a zesty and refreshing side dish. It's an excellent companion to Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes like burritos and tacos! Prepare your favorite rice and add chopped cilantro, lime juice, and salt & pepper to taste! Just like Chipotle but at home!

5. Majadra

Majadra is a Middle Eastern rice and lentil dish that's bursting with flavor from spices like cumin and coriander. It's often served with caramelized onions, yogurt, and a salad.

6. Fried Rice

Fried rice is a versatile dish that allows you to use up leftovers and create a quick and tasty meal. You can throw in vegetables, protein, and your favorite sauce to customize it to your liking! Fried rice is best when you use your leftover rice, so always prepare a little extra to have for when the fried rice cravings hit!

Freezing Leftover Rice

To save time in the kitchen, try freezing your leftover rice. By doing this, you can easily prepare your own 90-second rice whenever you need it. Simply reheat in the microwave, and you'll have a quick and convenient side dish ready to go.

Organic or Not Organic?

The choice between organic and non-organic rice is a personal one. Organic rice is grown without synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, making it a more environmentally friendly option. However, it can be more expensive. Non-organic rice is more widely available and often more budget-friendly but may have higher pesticide residues.

Do I need a rice cooker?

A rice cooker can be a valuable kitchen appliance if you frequently cook rice. It takes the guesswork out and ensures consistent results. However, if you have a tight kitchen budget or limited counter space, you can still achieve excellent results with a regular pot on the stove. Even when my clients have a rice cooker, I make it on the stove anyway, for me it’s easier and quicker.

Should I use an Instant Pot?

If you need to prepare a large batch of rice, consider using an Instant Pot. It's a quick and efficient way to cook a whole bag of rice, making it perfect for gatherings or meal prep.

Rice is one of my favorite ways to add an easy base to my meal prep dishes. Not only is it simple to make and store for later, but there are also endless options for customizing the flavor to keep your meals interesting and delicious! If you are looking to learn more about how to make rice, I often include some version of it in my monthly Prep & Party menus. Join to a Prep & Party and learn how to cook rice and many other delicious recipes!