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    Home » All Plant Based Recipes

    Healthy Rice Recipes

    Published: Jan 22, 2021 by Jenn Sebestyen

    As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please see my Privacy Policy for more details.

    12 photo collage of healthy rice recipes with text overlay.

    Rice is an inexpensive and versatile pantry staple. It comes in many varieties and lends itself well to a myriad of dishes. Which is the best variety to use? The healthiest? What are the best rice recipes? Keep reading to find out all you need to know about rice plus the best Healthy Rice Recipes!

    9 varieties of rice in individual bowls.
    Table of Contents hide
    1 What is rice?
    2 Varieties of rice
    3 How to cook rice
    4 Storage and freezing
    5 Pro tips and tricks
    6 FAQs
    7 More vegan pantry staple recipes
    8 Healthy Rice Recipes

    What is rice?

    Rice is the edible seed of a species of grass. It’s a grain that is widely used across the world’s population.

    It is mainly a carbohydrate, but it contains protein and a small amount of fat, too, not to mention many essential vitamins and minerals, like B vitamins, potassium, magnesium, folic acid, selenium, iron, and zinc.

    Varieties of rice

    There are tens of thousands of rice varieties!

    Depending on how they are produced, they can be brown or white.

    In the case of brown rice, the whole kernel is intact and it is surrounded by all the bran layers. The rice can be further processed by removing all of the bran layers producing white rice.

    Quick cook or instant rice takes it one step further and precooks the rice making it quicker to cook once you get your hands on it. There is very little difference, nutritionally speaking, between quick-cooking rice and regular varieties. For this reason, it’s a pantry staple in my own kitchen as a time saver. It does cost a bit more, but I find the convenience totally worth it.

    For convenience sake, I am focusing on the most popular varieties of rice for this article and featuring them in the delicious Healthy Rice Recipes that follow. Note that most of these varieties can be found in both brown and white versions.

    Rice varieties arrayed in individual bowls.

    Arborio Rice

    Arborio rice is mostly used for making risotto, a creamy broth based dish. It’s an Italian short grain rice with a lovely chewy texture that absorbs liquid easily to become creamy.

    Don’t miss the amazing risotto recipes featured in the Healthy Rice Recipes below.

    Basmati Rice

    Basmati is an Indian long grain rice. It is wonderfully fragrant and flavorful. It comes in both white and whole grain brown varieties. You can find quick-cooking options for Basmati as well.

    It pairs beautifully with curry dishes.

    Black Rice

    Black rice is sometimes referred to as Forbidden rice or purple rice because of its deep hue. It is nearly always sold as a whole grain with the entire bran intact, like brown rice.

    It has a nutty flavor and chewy texture. There are actually several varieties of black rice.

    It is often used in desserts! Check out the Healthy Rice Recipes that follow to find out how!

    Jasmine Rice

    Jasmine rice is a Thai long grain rice. It’s nutty, floral and fragrant and is one of my favorite rice varieties. It comes in whole grain brown or white versions and is relatively quick cooking compared to other varieties.

    I love it with curries or tomato based dishes and BBQ flavors. It really goes with everything!

    Long Grain Rice

    Long grain white rice is one of the most popular rice varieties in the US. It has a mild flavor which lends itself well to any number of dishes. It is also extremely affordable. Long grain rice also comes in brown varieties.

    Sushi Rice

    Sushi rice is a short grain Japanese rice. It is very high in starch, similar to sticky rice, but it can be used just like you would any white rice.

    Wild Rice

    Wild rice isn’t actually rice. Like rice it is a seed of grass, but wild rice comes from grass that grows in shallow fresh water and is not related to regular rice at all. It can, however, be used as you would use other types of rice.

    Wild rice is considered a complete protein, containing all 9 essential amino acids.

    How to cook rice

    Red enamel pot over a flame on a gas range stove.

    Rice can be cooked in a rice cooker, on the stovetop, in the microwave, in the oven, or even in the Instant Pot.

    Personally, I find the stove top the easiest method for myself. Just make sure you use a large pot to prevent boiling over.

    I almost always rinse rice before cooking. This decreases the starchiness and ensures it cooks up fluffy. Note: Do not rinse if you want your rice to be sticky or creamy, like in risotto or sushi.

    The most common liquid to rice ratio is 2:1, but this does not work for every type of rice. Each variety will take a different amount of time to cook through, as well. Be sure to read and follow package directions for the variety you are using.

    Storage and freezing

    Store dry, uncooked rice in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It will keep well for 6 months to a year. White rice keeps longer than brown rice.

    Cooked rice can be kept in the fridge in an airtight container for 4 to 5 days. Or you can freeze it in freezer safe bags or containers for up to 6 months, so it’s ready to be used in any of the delicious healthy rice recipes featured here.

    Pro tips and tricks

    • Rinse the rice well under cold water and drain before cooking. This will decrease the starchiness and ensure that your rice doesn’t become clumpy. Please note: if you are making risotto or any other type of sticky/creamy rice dish – do NOT rinse the rice first.
    • Use a large pot to prevent boiling over!
    • Use the correct amount of liquid. Each variety cooks a bit differently, so read the package directions carefully and measure correctly.
    • Add salt and any seasonings to the liquid once it begins to boil. Or try cooking in broth instead of water.
    • Once the liquid is boiling, pour in the rice and give it a quick stir so it doesn’t stick.
    • Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and do not open it to stir during the cooking process.
    • When the rice is done, remove from heat and let the rice sit in the pot untouched for another 5 to 10 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

    FAQs

    Is rice healthy?

    Yes! Rice is a carbohydrate and our bodies main fuel source is carbs. It’s important to get plenty of unrefined whole grain carbs in our diets for energy.

    Rice also contains numerous vitamins and minerals, fiber, and even protein.

    Which type of rice is the healthiest?

    Brown rice is a healthier option than white rice because it is less processed and contains more fiber.

    Should rice be washed before cooking?

    Rinsing rise is a good idea to remove any dust and debris. It also reduces the amount of starch to help the rice cook up fluffy.

    Why is my rice mushy?

    The likely answer is that too much water was used. Each variety cooks a bit differently. Make sure to read the package directions carefully and measure the rice and liquid correctly to ensure perfect rice every time.

    How to make rice less boring?

    Adding a drizzle of olive oil to the pot and toasting the rice for a minute or two before adding the liquid will bring out its nutty flavor. Or try cooking the rice in vegetable broth instead of water.

    Add dried herbs or spices to the pot while cooking and don’t forget to season with salt.

    More vegan pantry staple recipes

    • Vegan Black Bean Recipes
    • Vegan Chickpea Recipes
    • Vegan Lentil Recipes
    • Vegan Butternut Squash Recipes
    • Vegan Quinoa Recipes

    I hope you love these recipes as much as we do! If you try any of them, please leave a comment below with your feedback.

    Be sure to sign up for my FREE Newsletter to be the first to get my NEW recipes! You can also follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest.


    For even more easy family recipes, be sure to check out my cookbook, The Meatless Monday Family Cookbook!

    Healthy Rice Recipes

    Rice is an inexpensive and versatile pantry staple. It comes in many varieties and lends itself well to a myriad of dishes. You'll love these Healthy Rice Recipes!

    Arborio Rice

    Vegan Butternut Squash Risotto

    Creamy arborio rice, savory herbs, and sweet roasted butternut squash is the cozy dish you need.

    Southwest Pumpkin Risotto

    A delicious, creamy risotto made with a fun Tex-Mex spin and absolutely no dairy!

    Vegan Endive Risotto

    Photo Credit: sevenroses.net

    Creamy, easy, and all in one pot, this risotto is a colorful, tasty and filling dish.

    Easy Instant Pot Mushroom Risotto

    Photo Credit: thebellyrulesthemind.net

    Risotto made easily in the Instant Pot!

    Instant Pot Chanterelle Squash Risotto

    Photo Credit: veganyackattack.com

    Full of delicious fall flavors, this easy risotto is filling and satisfying!

    Creamy Rice Pudding With Rosewater and Pistachios

    Photo Credit: theminimalistvegan.com

    Creamy vegan rice dish with rosewater and pistachios is a creative spin on rice pudding.

    Vegan Arancini

    Photo Credit: jessicainthekitchen.com

    Using leftover risotto, these rice balls are stuffed with dairy free mozzarella and come with an air-fryer option!

    Basmati Rice

    Spiced Chickpea Stew

    So much flavor packed into this easy weeknight-worthy dish.

    Instant Pot Layered Indian Dinner

    All of the components of this dish are made at the same time in the Instant Pot. Try it to believe it!

    Spinach Rice and Chickpeas

    This Spinach Rice and Chickpeas is a flavorful beans and grains dish made quickly and easily in the Instant Pot. Perfect as a main course or as a side dish to a heartier meal. From start to finish, it’s done in under 30 minutes!

    Coconut Carrot Rice

    Photo Credit: www.frieddandelions.com

    Nutty basmati rice with fresh ginger, carrots, and coconut is a warm and cozy dish.

    Instant Pot Cauliflower and Chickpea Tikka Masala with Coconut Rice 

    Photo Credit: www.eatingbyelaine.com

    A vegan version of Tikka Masala and it's all made easily in the Instant Pot!

    Basmati and Wild Rice with Chickpeas, Currants and Herbs

    Photo Credit: theviewfromgreatisland.com

    A hearty, satisfying vegan entrée or a stunning side dish.

    Coconut Cream Pie 

    Photo Credit: daniscookings.com

    Proving that dessert can be healthy! This delicious dessert is gluten free, sugar-free, sweetened with dates and maple syrup, and topped with rich coconut cream. And, yes, it's made with rice!

    Black Rice

    Mango Basil Rice 

    Photo Credit: veeg.co

    Rice for breakfast? Yes! And since it's paired with sweet ingredients like mango and pure maple syrup it would work as a healthy dessert, too!

    Indonesian Black Rice Pudding

    Photo Credit: www.heynutritionlady.com

    This is another one perfect for breakfast or dessert. Naturally sweetened with coconut milk and coconut sugar, this creamy rice dish has Instant Pot and stove top directions.

    Vegan Sushi Bowl 

    Photo Credit: simple-veganista.com

    This deconstructed vegan sushi bowl makes a healthy lunch or dinner!

    Black Rice Recipe With Apple, Avocado And Carrots

    Photo Credit: yourguardianchef.com

    Nutty black rice, sweet apples and carrots, and creamy avocado are the perfect combo is this easy dish.

    Forbidden Rice & Veggie Glow Bowl

    Photo Credit: www.theglowingfridge.com

    This colorful bowl is delicious, nutritious, and packed with healthy plant protein.

    Forbidden Rice Chocolate Mousse 

    Photo Credit: www.godairyfree.org

    This wholesome chocolate dessert is made with just 4 ingredients and is made in the slow cooker!

    Brown Rice

    Rice Bowls with Roasted Veggies

    Easily customized with the veggies you have on hand. Perfect for a weeknight meal!

    Autumn Burger

    Made from all whole food ingredients and so full of flavor!

    Asian Lentil Burger Lettuce Wraps

    An Asian-inspired twist on easy veggie burgers. They are crisp and firm on the outside, soft and moist on the inside and hold up really well.

    Easy Vegan Fried Rice 

    Leftover rice works best for this easy 30 minute dish.

    Super Simple Vegan Burrito Bowl

    One of the easiest meals you'll ever make! Ditch the utensils and grab some tortilla chips for scooping instead!

    Healthy Bean & Vegetable Casserole 

    Photo Credit: www.vnutritionandwellness.com

    This creamy, delicious casserole is guilt free comfort food!

    Mixed vegetable ginger & turmeric rice

    Photo Credit: cadryskitchen.com

    This one-pot recipe packs tons of flavor and is done in just 30 minutes. A great dish for leftover rice!

    Easy Vegan Spanish Paella

    Photo Credit: zardyplants.com

    This easy vegan Spanish paella is oil-free and made in about 40 minutes.

    Jasmine Rice

    Thai Sweet Potato Curry

    This peanut butter red curry sauce is super kid-friendly and the whole dish is incredibly easy to make!

    Spicy Peanut Rice Stuffed Mini Peppers

    A fun and flavorful appetizer or snack!

    Gluten-Free Yellow Curry Fried Rice

    Photo Credit: badtothebowl.com

    Yellow curry fried comes together quickly with tofu and vegetables for a yummy dinner!

    One Pot Vegan Coconut Curried Brown Rice with Tofu

    Photo Credit: www.ambitiouskitchen.com

    This dish is a burst of flavors and textures and it's all easily made in one pot!

    Easy Vegan Creamy Curry Rice Soup

    Photo Credit: thevegan8.com

    This hearty curry soup is rich and creamy and completely vegan!

    Easy Weeknight Vegan Pumpkin Curry Recipe

    Photo Credit: www.crowdedkitchen.com

    This comfort food dish is quick and easy, boasts lots of fall vegetables and and a delicious coconut curry broth.

    Long Grain

    One Pan Harissa Vegetables, Rice and Chickpeas

    Photo Credit: www.veggiesdontbite.com

    This recipe brings tons of flavor, but is an easy, chop and dump meal made all in one pan.

    Mediterranean Yellow Rice

    Photo Credit: www.veggiessavetheday.com

    Seasoned with garlic, cumin, and cilantro, this easy dish comes together in just 30 minutes and pairs well with any entrée.

    Easy Spanish Rice Recipe

    Photo Credit: www.spabettie.com

    This flavorful Spanish rice needs only 5 ingredients and is super easy to make!

    Black Beans & Rice Meal Prep

    Photo Credit: avirtualvegan.com

    If you like to meal prep, this recipe is perfect for you! All components are ready in just 30 minutes, so it's an easy weeknight meal, too!

    Sushi Rice

    Vegan Fried Rice

    Photo Credit: shortgirltallorder.com

    Just like the Hibachi-style rice you love, but made in just 30 minutes in the comfort of your own home!

    Vegan Sushi with Carrot Lox and Tahini Tofu

    Photo Credit: sarahsveganguide.com

    There are TWO different types of vegan sushi featured here and each one sounds more delicious than the next. Carrot lox sushi with vegan cream cheese and tahini tofu sushi!

    Easy Vegan Sushi Recipe

    Photo Credit: veganheaven.org

    This vegan sushi, with avocado, tofu, cucumber, and carrots, is a great beginner recipe

    Yaki Onigiri 

    Photo Credit: biancazapatka.com

    Easier to make than traditional sushi rolls, these Japanese Rice Balls are crispy on the outside and stuffed with avocado and salted peanuts.

    Wild Rice

    Creamy Leek and Wild Rice Soup 

    Thick and creamy in flavor, delicate in flavor, and perfect year round!

    Cranberry Pecan Wild Rice Salad

    A high protein, gluten free dish that make a great entrée or hearty side dish.

    Vegan Wild Rice and Butternut Squash Salad

    Photo Credit: heartbeetkitchen.com

    The combination of nutty wild rice, a simple maple dressing, and fresh herbs are not only delicious together, but their vibrant colors combine to make one stunning dish.

    Instant Pot Wild Rice Soup

    Photo Credit: choosingchia.com

    Naturally vegan and gluten free, this creamy soup is easy to make, hearty and delicious!

    Vegetable Wild Rice

    Photo Credit: www.tastingpage.com

    High protein wild rice and vegetables makes a great stand alone meal, but also a tasty side dish for most any entrée.

    Vegan Wild Rice Stuffing 

    Photo Credit: monkeyandmekitchenadventures.com

    This wild rice stuffing recipe would make a great Thanksgiving dish, but is easy enough for any time of year!

    Versatile - use what you have!

    Orange Cauliflower

    Roasted cauliflower drenched in a sticky sweet orange sauce with lots of bell peppers. Like take-out, but made easily at home.

    Meatless Stuffed Pepper Soup

    Filling and hearty, this soup has the taste and texture of the real thing, but is completely vegan!

    Lentil Rice Soup

    This hearty soup is easy to make and is perfect next to a side of crusty bread.

    Sesame Ginger Baked Tofu 

    Rice, veggies, tofu, and a delicious sesame ginger sauce!

    Quick and Easy Thai Green Curry Vegetables

    This easy, flavorful recipe takes advantage of pantry and freezer staples to come together in just 30 minutes!

    Vegan Chorizo Cabbage Rolls

    Photo Credit: myquietkitchen.com

    Ready in less under an hour, this recipe is oil-free and filled with plant-based chorizo, onion, greens, and rice, and then topped with loads of salsa and a dreamy Mexican cashew cheese!

    Spicy Green Rice

    Photo Credit: soupaddict.com

    This super flavorful spicy green sauce pairs with any rice variety to take your meal from good to great!

    Vegan Sweet Potato Burrito Bowls

    Photo Credit: bowlsarethenewplates.com

    While this recipe suggests white rice, any variety of cooked rice will work.

    Easy Pineapple Fried Rice

    Photo Credit: www.glueandglitter.com

    Like take-out, but healthier and more delicious!

    Sour Cabbage Rolls 

    Photo Credit: whereismyspoon.co

    White or brown short grain rice will work in these sweet and sour cabbage rolls.

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    Jenn Sebestyen of Veggie Inspired

    Hi, I'm Jenn! This is where I share delicious plant based recipes for the whole family. I love to cook; I can read cookbooks like novels; and I enjoy experimenting in the kitchen by making standard American favorites healthier.

    More about me →

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