Are you tired of the same old routine for dinner every weeknight? Do you wish you had more time to cook up a delicious meal, but your schedule just doesn’t allow for it? Instant brown rice is here to save the day! This quick and easy grain can be transformed into a wide variety of tasty dishes that are perfect for busy families or individuals. Whether you’re looking for a comforting bowl of pilaf or a flavorful stir-fry, instant brown rice is the perfect starting point.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 different recipes that showcase the versatility of instant brown rice. From savory and spicy to sweet and indulgent, these dishes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and discover a whole new world of flavors with instant brown rice as your foundation!
Garlic Butter Instant Brown Rice with Herbs
Elevate your meals with this aromatic and savory side dish, packed with the warmth of garlic and herbs. Perfect for accompanying your favorite proteins or as a standalone main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup instant brown rice
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the instant brown rice according to package instructions.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in the chopped parsley and thyme. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and stir in the garlic butter mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Servings: 1-2 people
Instant Brown Rice Stir-Fry with Vegetables
This recipe is a great way to use up leftover vegetables and cook a nutritious meal in no time. With the convenience of instant brown rice, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or weekends.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup instant brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g. bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or stir-fry sauce for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Cook the instant brown rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they are tender-crisp, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add it to the skillet or wok. Stir-fry everything together for about 2 minutes.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and optional soy sauce or stir-fry sauce to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Instant Brown Rice and Black Bean Bowl
This recipe combines the convenience of instant brown rice with the flavorful heat of spicy black beans, all wrapped up in a nutritious bowl. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup instant brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: avocado, salsa, shredded cheese, cilantro for toppings
Instructions:
1. Cook the instant brown rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pan. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in the black beans and cook until heated through.
5. Serve the spicy black bean mixture over the cooked brown rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Brown Rice Pilaf with Mushrooms and Peas
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional pilafs, using instant brown rice as a base. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup instant brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the rice, cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 5 minutes.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, peas, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, add dried thyme and stir to combine.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Instant Brown Rice Casserole
A comforting and easy-to-make casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat. This recipe combines the convenience of instant brown rice with the creaminess of melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup instant brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the instant brown rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, and melted butter. Mix well until cheese is fully incorporated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Brown Rice and Chicken Teriyaki
This recipe combines the simplicity of instant brown rice with the savory flavors of chicken teriyaki, perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Instant Brown Rice
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup Teriyaki sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Instant Brown Rice according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, combine chicken, Teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, and ginger. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
3. Serve cooked rice with chicken teriyaki on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Instant Brown Rice Salad
A flavorful and nutritious side dish that combines the warmth of Mediterranean cuisine with the convenience of instant brown rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup instant brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook instant brown rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, parsley, mint, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese (if using).
3. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad, tossing gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Brown Rice Jambalaya with Shrimp and Sausage
This recipe combines the convenience of instant brown rice with the bold flavors of jambalaya, featuring succulent shrimp and savory sausage.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Instant Brown Rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 pound smoked sausage, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook Instant Brown Rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Add shrimp and thyme; cook until shrimp are pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Fluff cooked Instant Brown Rice with a fork. Stir in soy sauce (if using). Combine rice with sausage and shrimp mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Instant Brown Rice Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the convenience of instant brown rice with sautéed vegetables and savory seasonings. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup instant brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the instant brown rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the cooked rice mixture, cumin, salt, and pepper.
6. Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Instant Brown Rice and Lentil Curry
This recipe combines the comfort of brown rice with the warmth of a flavorful lentil curry, all made possible with the convenience of instant brown rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Instant Brown Rice
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook Instant Brown Rice according to package instructions using 1 cup water.
2. In a large pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add garlic, lentils, diced tomatoes, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve the curry over cooked Instant Brown Rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Instant Brown Rice Fried Rice with Egg
This recipe is a simple and satisfying meal that can be prepared in no time. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a flavorful and filling dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked instant brown rice
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a non-stick pan or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Push the onion to one side of the pan. Crack in the beaten egg and scramble until cooked through.
4. Mix the egg with the onion.
5. Add the cooked instant brown rice, soy sauce, and salt to the pan. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Instant Brown Rice and Vegetable Soup
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious soup made with instant brown rice and a medley of vegetables. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Instant Brown Rice
– 4 cups Water or Vegetable Broth
– 1 medium Onion, diced
– 2 cloves Garlic, minced
– 1 medium Carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 medium Potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) Diced Tomatoes
– Salt and Pepper to taste
– Optional: Your choice of vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, zucchini, spinach)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine Instant Brown Rice and Water or Broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
2. Add diced Onion, minced Garlic, sliced Carrot, and cubed Potato. Simmer for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in Diced Tomatoes and season with Salt and Pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with your choice of optional vegetables.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Brown Rice Sushi Rolls
Transforming instant brown rice into a delicious sushi roll has never been easier! With this simple recipe, you can enjoy the convenience of homemade sushi without the fuss.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Instant Brown Rice
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
– Fillings of your choice (e.g. cucumber, carrot, avocado, salmon)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cooked Instant Brown Rice and water. Mix well to create a sticky dough.
2. Add soy sauce if desired for added flavor.
3. Lay a sheet of plastic wrap or parchment paper on a flat surface.
4. Place the rice mixture in the center of the sheet, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
5. Arrange your fillings horizontally across the rice.
6. Using your hands, shape the rice and fillings into a compact roll.
7. Roll up tightly, applying gentle pressure to form a firm shape.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in under 10 minutes.
Instant Brown Rice and Chickpea Buddha Bowl
This nutritious bowl combines fluffy instant brown rice with creamy chickpeas, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy dressing, making for a quick and satisfying meal. Perfect for a busy day or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Instant Brown Rice
– 1 can Chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups Water or Vegetable Broth
– 1/4 cup Diced Red Bell Pepper
– 1/4 cup Diced Cucumber
– 2 tbsp Lemon Juice
– Salt and Pepper to taste
– Optional: Chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the Instant Brown Rice according to package instructions using 2 cups Water or Vegetable Broth.
2. In a separate pan, heat the chickpeas over medium heat with a pinch of salt and pepper until warm.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and a pinch of salt.
4. Assemble the bowls by placing cooked rice at the bottom, followed by chickpeas, diced vegetables, and drizzle with the lemon dressing.
5. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Instant Brown Rice: 20-25 minutes
– Chickpeas: 5 minutes
– Total: 25-30 minutes
Instant Brown Rice Paella with Seafood
Experience the classic Spanish dish of paella, transformed into a speedy and satisfying meal that combines the convenience of instant brown rice with succulent seafood. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Instant Brown Rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, clams), cleaned and chopped
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the instant brown rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped seafood and smoked paprika. Cook until the seafood is pink and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in the seafood mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Brown Rice and Beef Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the convenience of instant brown rice with the flavors of a classic stir-fry, making it a quick and satisfying meal for any day. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy a nutritious and delicious dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Instant Brown Rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 lb Beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– Soy sauce and salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Instant Brown Rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Remove beef from pan and set aside.
5. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, onion, and garlic. Cook until onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Add mixed bell peppers and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
7. Return cooked beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce (to taste). Serve over cooked Instant Brown Rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Brown Rice Pudding with Cinnamon
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this quick and easy recipe that combines the comfort of brown rice pudding with a hint of warm cinnamon. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup instant brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the instant brown rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
3. Add the sugar, cinnamon, and salt to the cooked rice. Stir until well combined.
4. Gradually stir in the melted butter until fully incorporated.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Instant Brown Rice and Tofu Scramble
A protein-packed breakfast or brunch option that’s ready in a flash! This recipe combines the convenience of instant brown rice with the savory flavor of scrambled tofu.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Instant Brown Rice
– 1/2 block firm Tofu, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
– 1 small Onion, diced
– 1 clove Garlic, minced
– Salt and Pepper to taste
– Optional: Chopped Bell Peppers, Mushrooms, or Spinach for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Cook the Instant Brown Rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat the Olive Oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced Onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the crumbled Tofu and cook, stirring occasionally, until it resembles scrambled eggs, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Season with Salt and Pepper to taste. If desired, add chopped Bell Peppers, Mushrooms, or Spinach for added flavor.
5. Serve the Scrambled Tofu over the cooked Instant Brown Rice.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Instant Brown Rice Risotto with Asparagus
This recipe combines the creaminess of risotto with the convenience of instant brown rice, all wrapped up in a flavorful asparagus package. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Instant Brown Rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Instant Brown Rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the asparagus, onion, and garlic; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the vegetable mixture.
4. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until heated through.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Brown Rice and Kale Salad with Lemon Dressing
This Instant Brown Rice and Kale Salad with Lemon Dressing is a healthy and flavorful side dish or light lunch, perfect for busy days when you need something easy and nutritious. The combination of fluffy brown rice, tender kale, and tangy lemon dressing makes for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup instant brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the instant brown rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, massage the kale leaves with your hands for about 2 minutes to help soften the fibers.
3. Add the cooked brown rice, lemon juice, and olive oil to the bowl with the kale. Toss to combine.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including cooking time for instant brown rice)
Summary
Get quick and easy meals on the table with these 20 instant brown rice recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From hearty bowls to flavorful casseroles, these dishes are sure to please. Try garlic butter instant brown rice with herbs, a spicy black bean bowl, or a Mediterranean-inspired salad. Or, make a comforting pilaf with mushrooms and peas, or indulge in a cheesy casserole. Whether you’re cooking for one or a crowd, these recipes offer endless possibilities for a delicious and stress-free dinner.
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