November 14, 2023

The holiday season is upon us — a time for warmth, joy, and, most importantly, indulging in comfort food with friends and family. While you might be dreaming of sugar plums, gingerbread cookies, and succulent roasts, why not add a twist to your holiday spread with some mouthwatering rice dishes? Rice isn’t just a side dish; it can be the star of your holiday table too!

Classic Risotto alla Milanese

• Creamy Arborio rice infused with saffron and Parmesan, a luxurious addition to any holiday table.

Wild Rice and Mushroom Stuffing

• A hearty blend of wild rice, mushrooms, and aromatic herbs, perfect as a stuffing or a side dish.

Fried Rice with Roasted Chestnuts

• A festive twist on fried rice featuring roasted chestnuts, carrots, and peas. Great for using up leftover rice!

Jollof Rice with Chicken

• A one-pot dish from West Africa, bursting with flavors of tomatoes, onions, and spices, often enjoyed during celebrations.

Arroz con Gandules (Rice with Pigeon Peas)

• A Puerto Rican classic often served during Christmas and New Year’s, featuring rice, pigeon peas, and a variety of spices.

Coconut Rice Pudding with Spiced Berry Compote

• A comforting dessert of rice cooked in coconut milk, topped with a seasonal berry compote spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg.

Biryani with Lamb or Chicken

•  A rich and flavorful Indian dish layered with meat, rice, and an array of aromatic spices, perfect for special occasions.

Spanish Paella with Seafood and Saffron

• A traditional Spanish dish combining rice, seafood, and vegetables, beautifully flavored with saffron.

Cajun Dirty Rice

• A Louisiana favorite with rice, ground meat, and Cajun spices. It can serve as either a filling main course or a lively side dish.

Sticky Rice with Mango

• A popular Thai dessert that pairs sweet, coconut-infused sticky rice with fresh slices of mango.

These recipes not only offer a world of flavors but also the versatility to suit any type of holiday gathering. Rice is a great base ingredient for any meal, within any culture — why not experiment this holiday season? Enjoy your culinary journey, and may your holidays be filled with deliciousness!