Are you looking for a flavorful and nutritious side dish to add some excitement to your meals? Look no further than red rice! This vibrant, nutrient-rich grain is a staple in many cuisines around the world, and we’re excited to share 18 delicious recipes that showcase its versatility. From spicy and savory to sweet and comforting, these red rice dishes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty bowl of pilaf with mushrooms and herbs, or something lighter like a refreshing salad with avocado and lime dressing, we’ve got you covered. And don’t worry if you’re new to cooking with red rice – our recipes are easy to follow and require minimal ingredients. So go ahead, get creative, and start cooking up some flavorful fun!
Spicy Red Rice with Black Beans and Corn
This flavorful one-pot dish combines the warmth of red rice with the bold flavors of black beans, corn, and a hint of spice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked red rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the black beans, corn kernels, and red rice; stir to combine.
5. Add the water or broth; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Red Rice with Shrimp
A flavorful and aromatic one-pot dish that combines the warmth of garlic butter with the sweetness of red rice and succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked red rice
– 2 cups water
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the red rice and stir to coat with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Add the water, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender and fluffy.
6. Add the shrimp and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Red Rice with Mango Slices
Experience a flavorful fusion of tropical tastes with this Coconut Red Rice recipe, perfectly paired with sweet and juicy Mango Slices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked red rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
– Fresh mango slices for serving
Instructions:
1. Rinse the red rice and cook according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a separate pan, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the unsweetened shredded coconut and cook for 1-2 minutes, until lightly toasted.
5. Fluff cooked red rice with a fork and mix in the coconut mixture.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve the Coconut Red Rice alongside fresh mango slices.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Mexican Red Rice with Tomatoes and Peppers
A flavorful and vibrant twist on traditional Mexican rice, this recipe adds the brightness of tomatoes and peppers to create a delicious side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small tomato, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add bell pepper and tomato; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add rice, water, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
6. Fluff with a fork; garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Red Rice Salad with Avocado and Lime Dressing
A vibrant and refreshing salad that combines the nutty flavor of red rice with the creaminess of avocado and a zesty lime dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked red rice
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked red rice, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and chopped cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the rice mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Red Rice Stir-Fry with Tofu and Vegetables
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry dish that combines the nutty taste of red rice with the crunch of vegetables and the creaminess of tofu.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked red rice
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli. Stir-fry for 5 minutes, or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Add cooked red rice to the wok. Stir-fry for 1 minute, breaking up any clumps.
5. Pour in soy sauce and sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Red Rice Pilaf with Mushrooms and Herbs
A flavorful and nutritious pilaf dish that combines the earthy taste of red rice with sautéed mushrooms and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup uncooked red rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse red rice and cook according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add sliced mushrooms and minced garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown.
4. Stir in thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Once red rice is cooked, fluff with a fork and add to the skillet. Toss to combine with mushroom mixture.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Red Rice Jambalaya with Sausage and Chicken
Red Rice Jambalaya with Sausage and Chicken Recipe
A hearty one-pot dish that combines the flavors of Louisiana, featuring spicy sausage and chicken cooked with red rice and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 2 cups uncooked red rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron pot over medium-high.
2. Add chicken and sausage; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, and oregano; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in red rice and chicken broth; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add jalapeños or hot sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Red Rice Sushi Rolls with Crab and Cucumber
Experience the unique flavor of red rice sushi rolls filled with succulent crab and refreshing cucumber. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for sushi lovers looking to try something new.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked red rice
– 1/2 cup sushi vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 avocado, sliced
– 1/2 cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup imitation crab meat, flaked
– Nori sheets (dried seaweed)
– Sesame seeds and soy sauce for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the red rice by mixing it with sushi vinegar and water in a bowl.
2. Lay a nori sheet flat on a cutting board. Spread a thin layer of the red rice mixture onto the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
3. Place sliced avocado, cucumber, and imitation crab meat horizontally across the middle of the rice.
4. Roll the sushi using a bamboo sushi mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure to form a compact roll.
5. Slice into individual pieces and garnish with sesame seeds and soy sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes ( preparation time: 5-7 minutes)
Red Rice Porridge with Ginger and Scallions
This comforting porridge is a staple in many Asian cultures, particularly during cold weather or as a gentle breakfast option. The combination of red rice, ginger, and scallions creates a soothing and flavorful bowl that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red rice
– 4 cups water
– 2 inches piece of fresh ginger, sliced
– 2 scallions, thinly sliced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the red rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a large pot, combine the rinsed rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and creamy.
3. Add the sliced ginger and scallions to the porridge during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Season with salt to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Red Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers with Cheese
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory flavors of red rice and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked red rice
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked red rice, shredded cheese, and chopped parsley.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Red Rice and Lentil Curry with Coconut Milk
This flavorful curry is a hearty blend of red rice, lentils, and aromatic spices, creamy coconut milk adds richness and depth to the dish. Serve with naan or roti for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red rice
– 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook red rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Red Rice Paella with Seafood and Saffron
Experience the flavors of Spain with this vibrant red rice paella, packed with succulent seafood and infused with the subtle warmth of saffron.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked red rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, clams)
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large paella pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the mixed seafood; cook until pink and tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the red rice, soaked saffron, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Cook, uncovered, over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is cooked.
6. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Red Rice Risotto with Parmesan and Peas
This vibrant risotto combines the natural sweetness of red rice with the savory flavors of Parmesan cheese and fresh peas, creating a unique and delicious side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio red rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the Arborio red rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Warm the vegetable broth and add it to the rice in 1/2 cup increments, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. When the rice is cooked and creamy, stir in the peas and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Red Rice Bibimbap with Kimchi and Fried Egg
This iconic Korean dish, Bibimbap, means “mixed rice,” and this variation adds a runny fried egg and spicy kimchi for added richness. Red rice is used to add a pop of color and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook red rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a small pan, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced onion and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Crack the egg into a separate pan and cook sunny-side up.
4. To assemble, place cooked red rice in a bowl, followed by a spoonful of kimchi, then top with the fried egg.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Red Rice Pudding with Cinnamon and Raisins
A classic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, this red rice pudding is infused with the warmth of cinnamon and sweetness of raisins. It’s a simple yet satisfying treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked red rice
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup raisins
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cooked red rice, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the pudding has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the raisins.
5. Let cool slightly before serving warm.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Red Rice Tacos with Spiced Ground Beef
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful recipe that combines tender ground beef, spicy seasonings, and nutty red rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup uncooked red rice
– 2 cups water
– Vegetable oil for cooking
– Taco-sized corn tortillas (6-8)
– Shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, cilantro, and sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the red rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the tacos by spooning the ground beef mixture onto a warmed tortilla, topping with red rice, and adding your desired toppings.
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Red Rice and Chickpea Buddha Bowl
A nourishing and flavorful bowl that combines the earthy sweetness of red rice with the creamy richness of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a vibrant medley of colors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, carrots, and your favorite toppings
Instructions:
1. Cook the red rice according to package instructions using water or vegetable broth.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chickpeas, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Fluff the cooked red rice with a fork and add it to the skillet. Stir to combine with the chickpea mixture.
5. Serve in bowls and top with your favorite toppings, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Discover the delicious and nutritious world of red rice recipes! From spicy black bean and corn dishes to shrimp-filled garlic butter creations, these mouth-watering meals will tantalize your taste buds. Enjoy coconut-infused mango slices or classic Mexican flavors with tomatoes and peppers. Get creative with avocados, tofu, mushrooms, sausage, and chicken in a variety of stir-fries, pilafs, and jambalayas. Or try something new with red rice sushi rolls, porridges, stuffed bell peppers, curries, paellas, risottos, bibimbaps, puddings, or tacos! Whatever your taste, there’s a flavorful recipe to suit.
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