Few ingredients match rice for versatility. Available in a host of distinct and delicious varieties, rice has long been a pantry staple for good reason. However, one variety that sometimes gets overlooked is the fragrant jasmine variety. Today, we’re here to put that right with our easy guide to cooking jasmine rice. From its flavour and origins to recipes you can try at home, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about cooking this aromatic grain, and give you plenty of food for thought.
Origins of Jasmine Rice
Jasmine rice hails from Thailand, where it’s been cultivated for centuries and remains a staple of Thai cuisine. Known locally as khao hom mali, which means “fragrant rice,” jasmine boasts a naturally floral aroma and soft, slightly sticky texture when cooked. Over time, its popularity has spread across Southeast Asia and eventually worldwide, becoming a favourite in many Canadian kitchens.
What Does Jasmine Rice Taste Like?
Jasmine rice has a light, slightly sweet flavour with a subtle floral aroma that emerges when cooked. Its texture is soft and tender, with a gentle stickiness that helps it hold together without becoming mushy, making it ideal for both savoury and lightly seasoned dishes.
How to Cook Jasmine Rice
Cooking jasmine rice is easy. For Minute Rice® Quick Cook Jasmine all you have to do is:
- Boil water. (Rice to water ratio is 1 cup rice per 1 cup water)
- Add rice, stir, cover and remove from heat.
- Wait 5 minutes, or until water is absorbed, then fluff with a fork.
Alternatively, you can prepare it with our convenient Minute Rice® Jasmine Cups. Designed for busy days, our easy-to-make rice cups offer a wide range of varieties and flavors, so mealtime is always quick and hassle-free.
How to Prepare Long-Cook Jasmine Rice Varieties
If you’re preparing a long-cook variety of jasmine rice, simply follow these easy steps:
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Rinse rice under cold water until the water runs mostly clear.
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Combine 1 cup jasmine long-cook rice with 1½ cups water and a pinch of salt in a saucepan.
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Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
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Simmer gently for 15–18 minutes, until water is absorbed.
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Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
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Fluff with a fork and serve.
1. Traditional Thai Recipes to Try at Home
What better place to start than with a delicious Thai recipe with jasmine rice? Thailand is famous for its cuisine, and with good reason. This Creamy Thai Soup will please both newcomers to Thai food and those already acquainted with its rich culinary history. Made with Minute Rice® Quick Cook Jasmine, it’s tasty and convenient in equal measure.
2. Thai Curry Made Easy
Another common feature of Thai cooking is the use of coconut in savoury dishes. Coconut adds sweetness and fragrance to meals like this Spiced Curry Coconut Rice, resulting in an aromatic, flavourful meal you can rustle up in just 15 minutes.
3. Fried Rice with a Seafood Twist
If fried rice is something you like cooking at home, here’s a great way to take it up a notch. This Lime Ginger Shrimp Fried Rice is a fragrant feast with a seafood twist. Pair it with seaweed snacks or Asian-style coleslaw, and you’ve got an enticing meal to look forward to at the end of a busy day.
4. Korean Bibimbap
New to the concept of Bibimbap? Imagine a rice bowl that puts extra emphasis on sauteéd veggies. Got it? Now finish it off with a fried egg on top. If this has piqued your interest, our Quick and Easy Bibimbap is the perfect recipe to get you started. Made with spinach, bean sprouts, shredded carrots, eggs, sesame seeds, and spicy sriracha sauce, it’s a jasmine rice feast that’s protein-packed and flavourful to boot.
5. Quick and Easy Fried Rice
Finally, to enjoy the flavour of jasmine rice in just 3 minutes, here’s a quick and easy recipe you’ll be glad to have in your repertoire on busy weeknights. This Microwave Egg Fried Rice makes for a simple yet satisfying meal you can rustle up in a flash. Made with Minute Rice® Jasmine Cups, peas, eggs, coleslaw, and sriracha, you can enjoy this as a side dish or a standalone meal.
Frequently Asked Questions about Jasmine Rice Recipes
1. What is jasmine rice, and how is it different from other rice?
Jasmine rice is a long-grain rice known for its light, floral aroma and slightly sticky texture when cooked. Compared to basmati rice, jasmine rice is softer and less dry, making it popular in Asian-inspired and fusion recipes commonly prepared in Canadian kitchens.
2. Do I need to rinse jasmine rice before cooking?
Yes, rinsing jasmine rice is recommended. Rinse it under cold water until the water runs mostly clear to remove excess starch. This helps prevent the rice from becoming too gummy while still keeping its signature tender texture.
3. What is the correct water-to-rice ratio for jasmine rice?
For most stovetop and rice cooker recipes, use 1½ cups of water for every 1 cup of jasmine rice. In colder or drier climates common in parts of Canada, you may need a tablespoon or two of extra water for best results.
4. Can jasmine rice be used in non-Asian recipes?
Absolutely. Jasmine rice works well in stir-fries, grain bowls, rice salads, and even as a side dish for grilled meats or roasted vegetables. Its subtle aroma adds flavour without overpowering Canadian and international dishes.
5. How should I store cooked jasmine rice?
Let cooked jasmine rice cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving, and avoid leaving cooked rice at room temperature for extended periods.
Good Food the Easy Way
With so many delicious jasmine rice recipes to try, your next meal is sure to be something special. For even more inspiration, along with helpful cooking tips, be sure to explore our blog.