Jasmine rice is a fragrant, long-grain rice known for its delicate floral aroma, soft texture and slightly sticky finish when cooked. Originally from Thailand, it is a versatile ingredient that works beautifully in everything from Thai curries and fried rice to desserts and breakfast dishes.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to cook perfect jasmine rice and share 10 delicious recipes to inspire your next meal.

What Makes Jasmine Rice Special?

Jasmine rice is a staple in many Asian cuisines thanks to its distinctive fragrance and naturally soft texture. When cooked, the grains become tender and slightly sticky, making them ideal for soaking up sauces, curries and stir-fry flavours.

Its versatility also means jasmine rice can be used in both savoury and sweet recipes, making it a great ingredient to keep in your pantry.

How to Cook Perfect Jasmine Rice Every Time

Achieving perfectly fluffy jasmine rice is simpler than you might think.

1. Rinse the rice: Place 1 cup of jasmine rice in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. Use the right ratio: Use 1½ cups of water for every 1 cup of jasmine rice.
3. Bring to a boil: In a medium saucepan, bring the rice and water to a boil.
4. Simmer gently: Reduce the heat to low, cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Let it rest: Remove from the heat and let the rice stand, covered, for 10 minutes.
6. Fluff: Gently fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Now that you’ve mastered the basics, let’s explore some delicious jasmine rice recipes.

10 Must-Try Jasmine Rice Recipes

1. Thai Pineapple Fried Rice

This vibrant dish combines the sweetness of pineapple with savoury jasmine rice for a delicious balance of flavours. Cashews add a satisfying crunch, while curry powder brings warmth and depth.

Thai pineapple fried rice is a great way to turn leftover jasmine rice into a quick and flavour-packed meal.

2. Coconut Jasmine Rice

Transform plain jasmine rice into a tropical side dish by cooking it with coconut milk instead of water. The coconut milk gives the rice a rich, creamy texture and subtle sweetness.

Serve it alongside grilled fish, spicy curries, stir-fries or other dishes that pair well with coconut flavours.

3. Chicken and Jasmine Rice Soup

This comforting soup combines tender chicken, aromatic vegetables and jasmine rice in a flavourful broth.

The rice adds texture and makes the soup more filling, making this a warming choice for a cold day or whenever you’re craving something comforting.

4. Jasmine Rice Pudding with Mango

Jasmine rice isn’t just for savoury dishes. It can also make a delicious dessert.

This creamy rice pudding can be flavoured with cardamom and served with fresh mango for a fragrant, fruity finish. It’s a simple way to give leftover rice a new life.

5. Green Tea Jasmine Rice

For something a little different, try cooking jasmine rice with green tea instead of plain water.

The delicate tea flavour adds an interesting aromatic note to the rice and pairs particularly well with Japanese and Chinese-inspired dishes.

6. Jasmine Rice Buddha Bowl

Use jasmine rice as the base for a colourful and satisfying Buddha bowl.

Top it with roasted vegetables, your choice of protein, avocado and a drizzle of tahini or another favourite dressing. Add herbs, seeds or pickles for extra texture and flavour.

7. Stuffed Bell Peppers with Jasmine Rice

Turn jasmine rice into a hearty filling for colourful stuffed peppers.

Combine cooked rice with ground meat, tomatoes, herbs and spices, then fill the peppers and bake until tender. It’s an easy and impressive dinner that can be adapted to suit your favourite ingredients.

8. Spicy Basil Chicken with Jasmine Rice

This Thai-inspired favourite combines stir-fried chicken with fragrant Thai basil, chillies and a savoury sauce.

Serve it over fluffy jasmine rice, which soaks up the rich sauce and balances the heat of the dish. It’s a quick and flavour-packed option for a weeknight dinner.

9. Mango Sticky Rice with Jasmine Rice

Mango sticky rice is traditionally made with glutinous rice, but jasmine rice can be used to create a lighter variation.

Serve the cooked rice with sweetened coconut milk and fresh mango slices for a simple dessert inspired by one of Thailand’s most popular sweet dishes.

10. Jasmine Rice Breakfast Porridge

Start the day with a warming jasmine rice porridge topped with banana, honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

The fragrant rice makes a delicious alternative to traditional oatmeal, and you can customise it with fresh fruit, nuts, seeds or your favourite toppings.

Why Choose Quality Jasmine Rice?

Not all jasmine rice is the same. For the best results, look for rice with a naturally fragrant aroma and grains that cook evenly to a soft, fluffy texture.

Good-quality jasmine rice should:

• Have a distinctive floral fragrance
• Cook into soft, tender grains
• Have a naturally light and slightly sticky texture
• Work well in both savoury and sweet recipes
• Be fresh and properly stored

Ready to Cook with Jasmine Rice?

From Thai pineapple fried rice and spicy basil chicken to coconut rice, rice pudding and breakfast porridge, jasmine rice is one of the most versatile ingredients you can keep in your kitchen.

Stock up on quality jasmine rice and experiment with different flavours, cuisines and cooking techniques. With a little creativity, there are countless ways to turn a simple bowl of rice into something delicious.