The 10 Best Types of Rice for Thai Curry

As a lover of Thai cuisine, I can’t help but appreciate the magical harmony that occurs when creamy curry meets fluffy rice.

If you’re like me, you know that the type of rice you choose can make or break the dish. That’s why I’m here to share with you the 10 best types of rice for Thai curry.

From fragrant Jasmine to nutty Basmati, and sticky Glutinous to earthy Wild rice, get ready to elevate your curry game to new heights.

Let’s dive in!

Jasmine Rice

Jasmine rice is a popular choice for Thai curry because of its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture. When I cook Thai curry, I always reach for a bag of jasmine rice.

The moment I open the bag, the sweet scent fills the kitchen, instantly making my mouth water. I love how the rice grains cook up light and fluffy, creating the perfect base for the rich and spicy curry. The grains absorb the flavors of the curry, adding an extra layer of deliciousness to every bite.

The texture is just right, not too sticky or mushy. It provides a satisfying contrast to the creamy curry sauce. With jasmine rice, every spoonful of Thai curry becomes a delightful culinary experience.

Basmati Rice

Basmati rice is often preferred for its long-grain texture and aromatic flavor in Thai curry.

I love using basmati rice when making Thai curry because it adds a wonderful fragrance and lightness to the dish.

The long grains of basmati rice stay separate and fluffy when cooked, making it the perfect accompaniment to the rich and flavorful curry sauce.

I find that the delicate aroma of basmati rice enhances the overall taste of the curry, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

Whether I’m making a spicy red curry or a creamy green curry, basmati rice always complements the dish perfectly.

Its unique texture and subtle taste make it a fantastic choice for Thai curry lovers like me.

Sticky Rice

Sticky rice, also known as glutinous rice, is a popular staple in many Asian cuisines. It is loved for its chewy texture and versatility in various dishes. Growing up in an Asian household, sticky rice was a regular part of our meals. It was always a treat to have sticky rice with mango for dessert or to enjoy it alongside savory dishes like grilled meats or stir-fried vegetables.

The sticky texture of the rice adds a unique element to the overall dining experience. It’s also a great option for making sushi or rice balls, as the stickiness helps to hold everything together. Whether it’s steamed, fried, or used in desserts, sticky rice never disappoints in bringing a delightful chewiness to every bite.

Brown Rice

If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, brown rice is a nutritious option that adds a nutty flavor to your meals. I love using brown rice in my cooking because it’s packed with vitamins and minerals that are good for my body. Plus, it’s high in fiber which helps keep me full and satisfied.

The nutty flavor of brown rice pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes, from stir-fries to salads. I find that it adds a nice texture and depth of flavor to my meals. Brown rice is also easy to cook and can be used as a substitute for white rice in many recipes.

Red Rice

When you’re looking for a new rice variety to try, red rice offers a unique and earthy flavor that adds depth to your dishes. I love cooking with red rice because it has a distinct nutty taste and a slightly chewy texture that makes every bite enjoyable.

Not only does it taste great, but red rice also has a beautiful reddish hue that adds visual appeal to any meal. It pairs perfectly with a variety of flavors and ingredients, making it a versatile option for different cuisines.

Whether I’m making a hearty stir-fry or a flavorful pilaf, red rice always brings a richness and complexity to the dish. So, if you’re in the mood for something different, give red rice a try and elevate your cooking to new heights.

Black Rice

Black rice, also known as forbidden rice, has a rich and nutty flavor that pairs well with a variety of dishes. I love cooking with black rice because it adds a unique and elegant touch to my meals.

The deep, dark color of the rice is visually appealing and creates a beautiful contrast with colorful vegetables and proteins.

Not only does black rice taste delicious, but it is also packed with nutrients. It is high in antioxidants and contains more fiber and protein compared to other rice varieties.

I enjoy using black rice in stir-fries, salads, and even desserts. Its chewy texture and earthy taste make it a versatile ingredient that can elevate any dish.

Glutinous Rice

To make sticky rice, you should soak the glutinous rice overnight before steaming it to achieve its desired texture. The process of soaking the rice overnight helps to soften the grains, allowing them to absorb water and become plump. This ensures that the rice cooks evenly and becomes sticky when steamed.

I love using glutinous rice in my cooking because of its unique stickiness and chewy texture. It adds a perfect balance to my Thai curry dishes. Once the rice is soaked, I simply transfer it to a steamer and let it cook until it becomes tender and sticky.

The end result is a deliciously sticky rice that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the curry.

Wild Rice

Although it isn’t a true rice, wild rice is a nutritious and flavorful grain. I love using it as a substitute in various recipes. It has a unique nutty taste and a chewy texture that adds depth to any dish.

I often use wild rice in salads, soups, and stir-fries for an extra burst of flavor. It’s also a great option for those who are gluten-free or looking to add more whole grains to their diet.

I enjoy the versatility of wild rice and how it complements other ingredients. Whether I’m making a creamy mushroom wild rice casserole or a hearty wild rice pilaf, this grain never disappoints.

Plus, it’s packed with essential nutrients like protein, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a healthy choice too.

Gaba Rice

After learning about the nutty flavor and chewy texture of wild rice, let’s dive into another type of rice that pairs perfectly with Thai curry: Gaba rice.

Gaba rice is short for ‘germinated brown rice’ and is known for its health benefits. It undergoes a special process where the rice is soaked in water before cooking, which activates the germination process and increases its gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) content. This compound is believed to have numerous health benefits, including reducing anxiety and promoting better sleep.

In terms of taste, Gaba rice has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor, with a soft and sticky texture. Its unique taste and added health benefits make it an excellent choice to complement the rich and spicy flavors of Thai curry.

Purple Rice

Purple rice is a nutritious and visually appealing option that you should consider adding to your meals. It is a type of rice that is naturally purple in color due to the presence of anthocyanins, which are powerful antioxidants.

I love cooking with purple rice because it adds a vibrant pop of color to any dish. Not only does it look great, but it also has a subtle nutty flavor that pairs well with a variety of ingredients.

Purple rice is also a great source of fiber and essential nutrients like iron and zinc. It is a versatile grain that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes, making it a wonderful addition to your culinary repertoire.