Have you got leftover rice lying in the back of the fridge? There are plenty of ways to level up your rice and turn yesterday’s meal into something special.
Poh Ling Yeow
Cooked rice should be reheated to at least 75°C before serving and not be re-heated more than once.
Place your rice in a microwave-safe bowl and loosely cover. Add 1-2 tablespoons of water for each cup of rice. Heat on high for 3 – 4 minutes or until heated through, stir halfway to ensure even heating. Let sit for 1 or 2 minutes, fluff with a fork and serve.
Place rice in a saucepan or skillet. Add 2 tablespoons of water or broth for each cup of rice. Cover with a lid and heat over low heat for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until rice is properly heated through.
Spread the rice evenly over a baking tray, sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of water or broth per cup of rice. Cover tightly with foil and heat at 160°C for approximately 20 minutes.
Rice pairs perfectly with a variety of herbs and spices, and choosing the right ones can help give your leftovers some extra oomph.
Coriander and mint will give your rice a fresh and vibrant flavour with a zesty finish, while cumin, turmeric or curry powder will add an instant flavour boost with warmth and depth - perfect for Mexican or Middle Eastern cuisine.
Adding broth or stock to your leftover rice is an easy way to infuse it with more flavour, and the added moisture will help make your grains soft and fluffy again. You can mix and match the flavour - chicken, vegetable, beef, or even seafood - to suit the dish you’re preparing.
You can add a quick punch of flavour just by adding some aromatics. Sauté garlic in oil before adding your rice to the pan will give you an aromatic taste, while freshly grated ginger will give your rice some zingy freshness.
If you’re starting with plain rice, you can add new flavours to take your rice to another level. For an Asian-inspired dish, add soy or sesame oil, or if you’re making a rice salad, lemon or lime zest will give it a citrusy kick. If you’re looking for comfort, adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese adds richness and umami.
Play around with toppings to up your leftover rice game. Toasted nuts or seeds add crunch and a nutty flavour, while a fried egg with a runny yolk will give you a creamy richness. Other fun toppings like satuéed mushrooms add umami and hearty texture, giving you some extra veggies.
Herbs and spices
Cooking in broth
Adding aromatics
New flavours
New toppings