Have you ever looked at all the varieties of rice and felt overwhelmed? Which dishes are best paired with which rice? This guide will give you some tips and guidance so you'll make the perfect choice for your next meal.
Basic rule of thumb
The most reliable shortcut is to start with the grain’s texture. Light, fragrant rice is best with aromatic, coconut-forward sauces. Sturdy, chewy rice holds up to richer curries and slow-cooked stews. Sticky rice thrives where cling is the point—glazes, braises, and desserts.
- Match weight to weight: Delicate rices go with lighter, more fragrant sauces. More robust rices suit richer, heavier curries.
- Let aroma lead: Fragrant rice amplifies lemongrass, ginger, citrus leaf, cumin, and cardamom flavours.
- The 'thing' about cling: separate grains suit ladled curries; stickier grains suit glazes, drizzles and bite-sized mains.
Jasmine pairings
Jasmine is soft, aromatic, and slightly sticky—ideal for sauces that perfume the whole bowl.
What to serve with jasmine rice:
- Thai green/red curry, massaman, panang, and coconut-based curries
- Vietnamese caramel-style braises, lemongrass chicken, and garlic-ginger stir-fries
- Chinese-style light soy + aromatics; add crisp veg for contrast
- Pair with prawns, squid, or scallops for quick “rice night” bowls.
Basmati pairings
Basmati’s long, separate grains shine with spice-led gravies and legumes.
What to serve with basmati rice:
-
Indian curries (butter-style, rogan-style, korma-style) and biryani-inspired toppings.
-
Dal and chickpea dishes (see lentils) with a finishing spoon of ghee or chilli oil.
-
Pakistani and Afghan-style kebab plates with yoghurt, herbs, and pickles.
- Basmati also loves tang—serve with lime pickle or a bright chutney to sharpen rich sauces.
Matta pairings
Kerala Matta (red rice) is hearty, nutty, and wonderfully chewy. It stands up to deep flavours.
What to serve with matta rice:
- Rich, slow-simmered stews, peppery curries, and coconut-milk fish curries.
- Beef or lamb-style gravies, mushroom stews, and thick lentil preparations.
- Strong condiments: toasted coconut sambal, spicy chutneys, and robust curry leaves.
- This is your “stew rice”: it won’t disappear under bold sauce.
Glutinous rice pairings
Glutinous (sticky) rice is about structure and cling—perfect for glazes, braises, and sweets.
What to serve with glutinous rice:
- Sticky mains: soy-garlic braises, Thai BBQ pork, char siu-style flavours, and sweet-savoury sauces.
- Korean-style gochujang glazes and sesame finishes.
- Desserts: coconut + mango, black sesame, pandan, and sweet bean preparations.
- Sticky rice also plays beautifully with salty toppings—think toasted sesame, peanuts, or crispy shallots.
- Thai Som Tam (shredded papaya) salad.