The 10 Best Types of Rice for Taco Bowls

Did you know that taco bowls are one of the most popular dishes in America?

As someone who loves Mexican cuisine and enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, I’ve discovered that the type of rice you choose can make a huge difference in the taste and texture of your taco bowl.

In this article, I will share with you the 10 best types of rice that will take your taco bowls to the next level.

So grab your apron and get ready to dive into a world of delicious flavors!

Basmati Rice

If you’re looking for a fragrant and fluffy rice option for your taco bowls, basmati rice is the way to go.

I absolutely love using basmati rice in my taco bowls because it adds a wonderful aroma and light texture to the dish. The grains are long, slender, and when cooked, they separate easily, making each bite a delight.

Basmati rice has a unique fragrance that fills the kitchen as it cooks, giving your taco bowls an enticing aroma. Not only does it taste amazing, but it also complements the flavors of the taco fillings perfectly.

Whether I’m making chicken, beef, or vegetarian taco bowls, basmati rice always takes my dish to the next level. It’s definitely my go-to choice for a delicious and satisfying taco bowl experience.

Jasmine Rice

When making your taco bowls, you’ll love the fragrant and fluffy texture of jasmine rice. It’s my go-to choice for adding a touch of elegance to this Mexican dish.

As I cook the rice, the kitchen fills with a sweet aroma that instantly transports me to faraway lands. The grains are slender and delicate, perfectly complementing the flavors of the taco fillings.

With each mouthful, I savor the light and airy texture that jasmine rice brings to the bowl. It soaks up the savory juices and adds a subtle hint of floral notes to the overall experience.

Whether it’s a spicy beef taco or a tangy fish taco, jasmine rice elevates the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Arborio Rice

You’ll adore the creamy and velvety texture that arborio rice brings to your risotto. It’s the perfect rice variety for creating a rich and indulgent dish.

Arborio rice is a short-grain rice that is traditionally used in Italian cuisine, especially for making risotto. When cooked, it releases starch, giving the dish a creamy consistency. The grains are plump and absorbent, allowing them to soak up the flavors of the broth and other ingredients. The result is a dish that is wonderfully creamy and full of flavor.

Arborio rice also has a slightly chewy texture, adding a pleasant mouthfeel to every bite. Whether you’re making a classic mushroom risotto or experimenting with different flavors, arborio rice is sure to elevate your dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Brown Rice

Brown rice is a nutritious and versatile grain that can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes. I love incorporating brown rice into my meals because it adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture.

Not only is it delicious, but it is also packed with nutrients. Brown rice is a whole grain that contains fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is a great source of complex carbohydrates that provide long-lasting energy.

I often use brown rice as a base for my taco bowls. It pairs perfectly with the flavorful spices and toppings, adding a wholesome and satisfying element to the dish. Whether I’m making a vegetarian or meat-filled taco bowl, brown rice is a fantastic option that enhances the overall taste and nutritional value.

Wild Rice

If you’re looking to switch up your grain options, wild rice offers a unique and flavorful alternative. It’s not actually a type of rice, but rather a seed from aquatic grass.

I love its nutty and earthy flavor, which adds a delicious complexity to any dish. Wild rice is also packed with nutrients like fiber, protein, and vitamins, making it a healthy choice.

One of my favorite ways to enjoy wild rice is in a taco bowl. Its chewy texture pairs perfectly with the savory meat and fresh toppings. Plus, it adds a beautiful pop of color to the bowl.

Forbidden Black Rice

Looking for a new grain to add to your repertoire? Forbidden black rice is a unique and flavorful option that offers a multitude of health benefits.

I recently discovered this amazing grain and it has quickly become a staple in my kitchen. The deep black color and nutty flavor make it a standout choice for any dish. Plus, it is packed with antioxidants, fiber, and essential minerals like iron and manganese.

Not only does forbidden black rice taste great, but it also provides numerous health benefits. It supports heart health, aids digestion, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.

Whether you’re looking to diversify your meals or improve your overall health, forbidden black rice is definitely worth a try.

Sushi Rice

After exploring the unique qualities of Forbidden Black Rice, I’m now diving into the world of Sushi Rice for my taco bowls.

Sushi Rice, with its sticky texture and subtly sweet flavor, adds a delightful twist to traditional taco fillings. As I cook the rice, I can already envision the perfect balance it will bring to my dish.

Its ability to hold together ingredients like seasoned meat, fresh vegetables, and tangy sauces is simply unmatched. The slightly tangy taste of the rice complements the vibrant flavors of the toppings, creating a harmonious fusion that will make every bite a culinary adventure.

Sushi Rice truly takes taco bowls to a whole new level, making them a standout dish for any occasion.

Quinoa

To enhance your culinary repertoire, consider incorporating quinoa into your dishes for a nutritious and versatile alternative to rice.

Quinoa is a grain-like seed that is packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. It has a nutty flavor and a light, fluffy texture that pairs well with a variety of ingredients.

Whether you’re making a salad, stir-fry, or even a taco bowl, quinoa can add a healthy twist to your favorite recipes. Plus, it cooks quickly and easily, making it a convenient option for busy weeknight meals.

Quinoa is also gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions.

Cauliflower Rice

So, we’ve talked about quinoa as a great alternative for taco bowls, but now let’s discuss another option that’s gaining popularity – cauliflower rice.

I must say, I was skeptical at first, but cauliflower rice has quickly become one of my favorite substitutes. It’s incredibly versatile and adds a unique flavor to taco bowls. Plus, it’s low in carbs and high in nutrients, making it a healthy choice.

To make cauliflower rice, simply pulse cauliflower florets in a food processor until they resemble rice grains. Then, sauté it in a pan with some olive oil and seasoning until it’s tender but still has a slight crunch.

Trust me, cauliflower rice will take your taco bowls to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Red Rice

If you’re looking for a flavorful and nutritious alternative to traditional rice, you should try red rice.

I’ve recently discovered red rice and it has quickly become one of my favorite options for a taco bowl.

The vibrant red color adds a pop to any dish and the taste is slightly nutty with a hint of sweetness.

Not only does it taste great, but red rice is also packed with nutrients.

It’s a good source of fiber, protein, and essential minerals like magnesium and zinc.

Red rice is also high in antioxidants, which can help protect against cell damage.

Next time you’re making a taco bowl, give red rice a try for a delicious and healthy twist.