Preparing Rice Dishes

July 1, 2026

Hello Friends,

One of the most favored foods all over the world since ancient times through today is rice. Today in our grocery stores there are many readily available from which we can choose; you can read more here.

I like to use different types of rice in my various recipes. I recommend trying the different ones because many have a completely different taste; this is why I still cook with several. Even the same type of rice can be changed by cooking in other liquids besides water or adding other ingredients. Rice is one ingredient which blends with hundreds of flavors. For a sweet taste try cooking white rice in all or part fruit juice; apple and pineapple juice are delicious. For other dishes chicken and beef broth make great replacements for the water. Favorite alcoholic beverages, milk and cream can also be used. Below are some simple ingredients to add to rice to give it a lot of flavor. Here you can find a list of some of my favorite rice recipes.

TRY ADDING THESE:

Crushed pineapple, chopped apples, mandarin oranges, canned peaches and pears.
Raisins, chopped dates, chopped apricots, figs, prunes, currants or other dried fruits and nuts.
Chopped mushrooms, chives, shallots and green onions.
Chopped bacon, ham, seafood and eggs hard cooked or scrambled.
Chopped green or red bell peppers, carrots, celery, green beans, onions or tomatoes.
Season with chopped herbs like cilantro, basil, parsley and minced garlic or ginger.
Sliced green and black olives or try a combination of sliced olives.
Grated cheese; Parmesan, Cheddar or crumbled feta or bleu cheese.

When my children were all at home, I would cook a large pot of rice and store it in the refrigerator to make quick meals. It is cheap and makes great tasting dishes. In a sealed bowl it will be good for up to one week in the refrigerator. Now I cook it ahead and store 2 cups in each freezer bag and place in my freezer; this also is very convenient. Frozen, the rice is good for up to six months.

Your friend, Frances