The 10 Best Types of Rice for Egg-Fried Rice

Did you know that there are over 40,000 different varieties of rice in the world? It’s mind-boggling!

But when it comes to making the perfect egg fried rice, not all types of rice are created equal.

In this article, I will share with you the 10 best types of rice for that delicious, fluffy, and flavorful dish.

So, if you’re ready to take your fried rice game to the next level, let’s dive right in!

Basmati Rice

Basmati rice is a popular choice for egg fried rice because of its long grains and aromatic flavor. When I make egg fried rice, I always reach for basmati rice because it adds a unique touch to the dish.

The long grains of basmati rice help to create that perfect texture in the fried rice, where each grain is separate and fluffy. Plus, the fragrance of basmati rice enhances the overall taste of the dish, giving it a delightful aroma.

Whether I’m making a simple egg fried rice or adding other ingredients like vegetables or meat, basmati rice always delivers a satisfying and flavorful result. It’s no wonder why basmati rice is a top choice for egg fried rice enthusiasts like me.

Jasmine Rice

Jasmine rice is a popular choice for making flavorful and aromatic egg fried rice. I love using Jasmine rice because it has a delicate fragrance that perfectly complements the dish.

The grains are long and slender, which gives the fried rice a nice texture. When cooked, Jasmine rice becomes slightly sticky, making it easier to mix with the other ingredients.

The natural sweetness of Jasmine rice enhances the flavors of the eggs, vegetables, and soy sauce. It absorbs the flavors of the seasonings and adds a subtle floral note to the dish.

Whether I’m making a simple egg fried rice or adding in additional ingredients like shrimp or chicken, Jasmine rice always delivers a delicious and satisfying meal.

Arborio Rice

Arborio rice is typically used in risotto dishes due to its high starch content, resulting in a creamy and rich texture. I love using Arborio rice when making risotto at home because it creates the perfect consistency. The grains absorb the flavorful broth and release their starch, creating a velvety and smooth dish.

The process of making risotto with Arborio rice is quite satisfying too. As I stir the rice in a hot pan, the starch is slowly released, creating a thick and luscious sauce. The end result is a comforting and indulgent meal that is perfect for any occasion.

Whether it’s a simple mushroom risotto or a more elaborate seafood risotto, Arborio rice always delivers on taste and texture.

Short Grain Rice

To achieve a creamy texture in your risotto, you should use short grain rice like sushi rice or Calrose. These types of rice have a higher starch content, which is essential for creating that luscious, velvety consistency that makes risotto so comforting and delicious.

When cooked, the grains of short grain rice become tender and slightly sticky, allowing them to absorb the flavors of the broth and other ingredients more effectively. The result is a rich and creamy dish that is simply irresistible.

Whether you’re making a classic mushroom risotto or experimenting with different flavors like butternut squash or seafood, using short grain rice will ensure that your risotto turns out perfectly every time.

Brown Rice

When cooked properly, brown rice can be just as creamy and delicious as its white rice counterparts. I’ve always been a fan of brown rice because of its nutty flavor and chewy texture.

It’s a healthier alternative to white rice as it retains the bran and germ, which contain essential nutrients and fiber. To cook brown rice perfectly, I use a 2:1 ratio of water to rice and let it simmer for about 45 minutes. This allows the grains to become tender and absorb the flavors of any dish I pair it with.

Whether I’m making a stir-fry or a hearty grain salad, brown rice adds a satisfying and wholesome element to my meals.

Sushi Rice

You can achieve the perfect stickiness and texture for sushi rice by rinsing it thoroughly before cooking, ensuring that each grain is cooked to perfection.

When preparing sushi rice, I always make sure to rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps to remove any excess starch and impurities, resulting in a cleaner and more evenly cooked rice.

Once rinsed, I let the rice soak in water for about 30 minutes before cooking. This step allows the rice to absorb the water evenly and ensures a fluffy and tender texture.

After soaking, I cook the rice in a rice cooker or on the stovetop, following the package instructions. The result is a beautifully sticky and slightly sweet sushi rice that perfectly complements any sushi roll.

Black Rice

Now that we’ve explored the wonders of sushi rice, let’s dive into another fantastic option for egg fried rice: black rice.

I must say, black rice adds a whole new dimension to this beloved dish. Not only does it bring a striking visual appeal with its deep, dark hue, but it also offers a unique nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the eggs and other ingredients.

The texture of black rice is slightly chewy, giving each bite a delightful bite. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients like antioxidants and fiber, making it a healthier choice.

Wild Rice

I’ve got to admit, wild rice brings a unique and earthy flavor to any dish it’s added to. When I first tried wild rice in a salad, I was blown away by its nutty taste and chewy texture. It adds a delightful complexity that elevates even the simplest of meals.

Whether it’s mixed into a pilaf or used as a base for a stir-fry, wild rice never fails to impress. Not only does it taste amazing, but it also offers a range of health benefits. Packed with fiber, protein, and essential minerals, wild rice is a nutritious addition to any diet.

Calrose Rice

If you’re craving a fluffy and slightly sticky rice for your sushi rolls, calrose rice is the perfect choice. I love using calrose rice because it has just the right texture and consistency that I look for in my sushi.

It absorbs the flavors of the ingredients beautifully, making every bite a burst of deliciousness.

Not only is calrose rice great for sushi, but it also works wonders in other Asian dishes like stir-fries and rice bowls. It’s easy to cook and holds its shape well, ensuring that your dishes turn out picture-perfect every time.

Glutinous Rice

Glutinous rice, also known as sticky rice, is a staple ingredient in many Asian desserts and dishes. I love cooking with glutinous rice because of its unique texture and flavor. When cooked, the grains stick together, giving dishes a satisfying chewiness.

The sticky nature of this rice makes it perfect for making rice cakes, dumplings, and even sushi. I often use glutinous rice to make traditional Thai mango sticky rice, a delicious dessert that combines the creaminess of coconut milk with the sweetness of ripe mangoes.

Additionally, glutinous rice is also commonly used in savory dishes like sticky rice with Chinese sausage or in glutinous rice balls served in a warm and comforting soup. The versatility of glutinous rice makes it a must-have ingredient in my pantry.