Around the world in 8 emblematic rice recipes
Rice is one of the most versatile, appreciated and used ingredients in world gastronomy. It is much more than a simple side dish. From Asia to America, this humble cereal has found its place in the cuisine of countless cultures. Its versatility has given rise to thousands of recipes adapted to each region, making it the undisputed protagonist of iconic dishes.
The great virtue of rice lies in its ability to absorb flavors, which makes it an ideal ingredient for experimenting in the kitchen. In addition, it is a cheap ingredient, within the reach of anyone, which makes it a perfect ally to give free rein to the imagination of millions of people throughout history and across the planet. It can be used to prepare everything from the most sophisticated dishes to the most humble and simple home-cooked meals, all of them full of history, culture and tradition.
Today we invite you to take a trip around the world through 8 rice recipes from different countries. Are you ready to savor the richness and diversity of this millenary ingredient?
1. Italy - Risotto
Risotto is a jewel of Italian cuisine, especially popular in the north of the country. Unlike many rice dishes, risotto stands out for its creamy and smooth texture, achieved thanks to the use of "arborio" rice, which has a high starch content. This allows the grains to integrate perfectly with the broth, cheese and butter.
Risotto is juicy and full of flavor. The most classic ones include ingredients such as mushrooms, seafood or saffron (Risotto alla Milanese).
2. Japan - Sushi
Sushi is one of the most recognized dishes in the world, with its roots deeply rooted in Japanese culture. Although the modern version of sushi is associated with raw fish, the real protagonist is rice, seasoned with rice vinegar, sugar and salt. This rice is combined with fresh seafood, fish, vegetables or even eggs. There are different types of sushi depending on the ingredients and shape: nigiri, maki, temaki.
3. Spain - Paella
Straight from Valencia, paella is one of the most emblematic dishes of Spanish gastronomy. Tradition has it that the local peasants used rice, seasonal vegetables, and small amounts of meat or fish that they had on hand, cooking them in a large iron skillet.
Authentic Valencian paella has no chorizo or onion, and to be considered as such, there is a strict protocol of ingredients and steps. The rest is "rice with stuff" :)
4. Hawaii - Poke Bowl
It seemed like a fad but it is here to stay. Poke bowl is a dish of Hawaiian origin that has gained fame and followers around the world. On a base of white or brown rice, some type of marinated fish (tuna, salmon) and some fresh elements such as avocado, cucumber, mango or seaweed are added. The result is a dish that mixes sweet and salty flavors with a great variety of textures and colors.
5. China - Cantonese Rice
Known outside China as three-delicious rice, Cantonese rice is a simple and quick recipe that has conquered palates around the world. It is cooked rice, sautéed in a wok with hot oil, to which ham, carrots, peas and scrambled eggs, among other ingredients, are added.
The result is a colorful dish, full of flavor, where each ingredient contributes its own "delight".
6. India - Chickpea Curry with Basmati Rice
Indian cuisine is an inexhaustible source of creativity, especially for those who follow vegetarian or vegan diets. A delicious example is chickpea curry, a simple but flavorful dish, which is combined with basmati rice to create a culinary experience rich in vegetable proteins and spices.
7. Indonesia (Bali) - Nasi Goreng
Nasi Goreng is one of the most representative dishes of Indonesian gastronomy, especially in Bali. This sautéed rice is accompanied by vegetables, shrimp, chicken and fried egg, and is seasoned with soy sauce, creating an explosion of flavors with a balance between sweet, salty and slightly spicy.
8. South Korea - Bibimbap
The next gastronomic stop takes us to South Korea. Bibimbap, one of the most iconic dishes of this country, literally means "mixed rice". This colorful and balanced dish is composed of rice, vegetables, meat and egg, all seasoned with Gochujang, a Korean hot bell pepper sauce.
How about you?
Did you know these recipes, have you tried them all, which is your favorite, and do you think we should add any other rice dish to our list?
