Spicy Thai Rice

Spicy Thai Rice Recipe with Green Onions, Chiles, and Peanuts

Region / culture: Asia, Southeast Asia, Thailand | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Spicy Thai Rice is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the heat of red chiles with the freshness of cilantro and lime juice. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice in their meals.

History

This recipe is inspired by traditional Thai cuisine, which is known for its bold flavors and use of fresh herbs and spices. Thai cuisine is a harmonious blend of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors, and this Spicy Thai Rice recipe captures that essence perfectly.

Ingredients

2 cups water
1 cup uncooked white rice
0.25 cup chopped green onions
2 fresh red chiles, chopped and seeded if desired
1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
1 tbsp margarine
1 tsp minced fresh ginger
0.75 tsp salt
2 tsp black pepper
0.13 tsp ground turmeric
1 to 2 tsp fresh lime juice
chopped roasted peanuts for garnishing, optional
red pepper flakes for garnishing, optional

How to prepare

In a 2- to 3 qt (2.84 liter) saucepan, combine water, rice, onions, chiles, cilantro, margarine, ginger, salt, black pepper, and turmeric. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring once or twice.
Reduce the heat, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Mix the cooked rice with lime juice and fluff it with a fork.
Garnish the rice with peanuts and pepper flakes. Serve it warm and plain, or pair this spice-based rice dish with other main dishes.

Variations

Add diced vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or peas for added texture and flavor.
Substitute the red chiles with sriracha sauce for a different level of heat.
Use coconut milk instead of water for a creamier texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to seed the red chiles if you prefer a milder heat level.

- For a more authentic flavor, use jasmine rice instead of white rice.

- Toasting the rice in the margarine before adding the water can enhance the nutty flavor of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Spicy Thai Rice as a side dish to grilled chicken or shrimp, or enjoy it on its own as a light and flavorful meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making Spicy Thai Rice is to cook the rice until it is tender and fluffy, and to infuse it with the flavors of the fresh herbs and spices.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use butter instead of margarine for a richer flavor.

- Substitute brown rice for white rice for a nuttier taste and added fiber.

Make Ahead Tips

Spicy Thai Rice can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Spicy Thai Rice with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro and a wedge of lime for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Spicy Thai Rice with a crisp and refreshing cucumber salad or a tangy mango salsa for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Spicy Thai Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 200 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 38g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 4g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 3g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and Iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains peanuts and margarine, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Spicy Thai Rice is a well-balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a meal.

Summary

Spicy Thai Rice is a delicious and aromatic dish that is perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors and a bit of heat. With a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, this dish is not only tasty but also nutritious. Serve it as a side dish or as a main meal for a satisfying and flavorful dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Spicy Thai Rice. It was many years ago, during one of my trips to Thailand. I had always been fascinated by the vibrant flavors and exotic ingredients used in Thai cuisine, and I was eager to learn as much as I could during my stay.

One day, while wandering through a bustling market in Bangkok, I stumbled upon a small food stall run by a friendly Thai woman. The aroma of sizzling spices and fragrant herbs wafted through the air, drawing me closer. Intrigued, I watched as the woman expertly prepared a dish that looked and smelled absolutely divine.

I couldn't resist asking her about the recipe, and to my delight, she was more than happy to share her secrets with me. She explained that the dish was called Spicy Thai Rice, a popular street food in Thailand that was both simple to make and bursting with bold flavors.

As she walked me through the ingredients and cooking process, I was amazed by the way she effortlessly combined sweet, sour, salty, and spicy elements to create a harmonious and satisfying dish. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make it myself.

I spent the rest of my time in Thailand studying the art of Thai cooking, seeking out talented chefs and home cooks who were willing to share their knowledge with me. I scribbled down notes and collected recipes, determined to bring a taste of Thailand back home with me.

When I finally returned to my own kitchen, I couldn't wait to recreate the Spicy Thai Rice dish that had captured my heart in Bangkok. I gathered all the necessary ingredients – fragrant jasmine rice, fiery bird's eye chilies, pungent fish sauce, tangy lime juice, and a colorful assortment of fresh vegetables and herbs.

As I heated up my wok and started to sauté the garlic, ginger, and chilies, the familiar scents of Thailand filled the air, transporting me back to the bustling streets and bustling markets of Bangkok. I added the cooked rice, tossed in the vegetables, and drizzled in the fish sauce and lime juice, tasting and adjusting the seasonings until everything was just right.

The finished dish was a symphony of flavors and textures – the heat of the chilies, the crunch of the vegetables, the tang of the lime – all coming together in perfect harmony. I couldn't believe how easy it was to make something so delicious and complex.

Since that day, Spicy Thai Rice has become a staple in my kitchen. I've shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the traditions and flavors of Thailand to anyone willing to give it a try. Every time I make it, I'm reminded of that fateful day in Bangkok when I first discovered the magic of Thai cuisine.

As I grow older, my love for cooking only deepens, and I am grateful for the experiences and recipes that have shaped me into the cook I am today. The Spicy Thai Rice dish will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and wonder that can be found in exploring new flavors and cultures.

I hope that one day, you too will have the chance to taste this dish and experience the same sense of wonder and delight that I felt all those years ago in Thailand. Who knows, maybe you'll even be inspired to create your own culinary masterpiece, using the flavors and techniques that speak to your soul.

But for now, let's enjoy this delicious bowl of Spicy Thai Rice together, savoring each bite and relishing in the memories of a culinary adventure that will last a lifetime.