The 10 Best Types of Rice for Vietnamese Food

Well, I’ve got some news for you folks – rice is kind of a big deal in Vietnamese cuisine. And let me tell you, there are some seriously amazing types of rice out there that can take your Vietnamese dishes to a whole new level.

In this article, I’m going to share with you the 10 best types of rice for Vietnamese food. Trust me, you’re going to want to keep reading if you’re a fan of delicious, authentic Vietnamese flavors.

Let’s dig in, shall we?

Jasmine Rice

Jasmine rice is a popular choice for Vietnamese dishes because of its fragrant aroma and sticky texture. I love using jasmine rice in my Vietnamese cooking because it adds a delightful flavor to the dishes.

The fragrance of the rice fills the kitchen as it cooks, creating an inviting atmosphere. The sticky texture of jasmine rice is perfect for dishes like Vietnamese fried rice or sticky rice with mango. It holds together well and absorbs the flavors of the other ingredients, making each bite a burst of deliciousness.

Whether it’s a savory stir-fry or a sweet dessert, jasmine rice elevates the taste and authenticity of Vietnamese cuisine. I always keep a stock of jasmine rice in my pantry to ensure my Vietnamese dishes are top-notch.

Sticky Rice

If you’re in the mood for a delectable and authentic Vietnamese dish, you can’t go wrong with sticky rice.

As a lover of Vietnamese cuisine, sticky rice has always been one of my favorites. It is a staple in many Vietnamese dishes and provides a unique texture and flavor.

The sticky, glutinous nature of the rice makes it perfect for rolling into balls or wrapping in banana leaves. One of the most popular dishes that features sticky rice is the renowned Vietnamese sticky rice with mung beans and coconut milk.

The combination of the creamy coconut milk, the nutty mung beans, and the sticky rice creates a heavenly dessert that is both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re enjoying it as a sweet treat or as part of a savory dish like sticky rice with grilled pork, sticky rice is a must-try when exploring Vietnamese cuisine.

Basmati Rice

When cooking basmati rice, make sure to rinse it thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch and achieve a fluffy texture.

I love using basmati rice in my cooking because of its aromatic and delicate flavor. It complements a wide range of dishes, from Indian curries to Middle Eastern pilafs.

One of the things that sets basmati rice apart is its long, slender grains that remain separate and fluffy when cooked.

To cook basmati rice, simply combine one part rice with two parts water in a pot. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.

Fluff the rice with a fork before serving, and enjoy its fragrant and light texture.

Brown Rice

To achieve a nutty flavor and chewy texture, I should cook brown rice with a ratio of one part rice to two parts water. This cooking method helps to preserve the natural goodness of the rice while giving it a delightful taste.

I love how the brown rice adds a wholesome element to my meals. It’s packed with fiber and essential nutrients, making it a healthy choice. When cooked properly, it has a slightly nutty and earthy flavor that complements a variety of dishes.

Whether I’m enjoying it in a stir-fry, salad, or as a side dish, brown rice always adds a satisfying and hearty element to my meals. Plus, it keeps me fuller for longer, which is an added bonus.

Glutinous Rice

You’ll love the sticky and chewy texture of glutinous rice, which makes it the perfect base for your favorite Asian desserts. It’s one of my personal favorites when it comes to rice varieties.

The name ‘glutinous’ may sound strange, but it actually refers to the rice’s sticky nature, not its gluten content. This type of rice is commonly used in many Asian cuisines, including Vietnamese cuisine.

Glutinous rice is often steamed and formed into balls or cakes, which can be filled with sweet or savory ingredients. In Vietnamese desserts, it is commonly used to make dishes like sticky rice with mango or coconut milk.

The chewy texture of glutinous rice adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the desserts, making them irresistible treats.

Red Rice

If you’re looking for a nutritious option, red rice is a great choice for adding color and flavor to your meals. I love incorporating red rice into my dishes because it not only tastes delicious but also provides numerous health benefits.

Red rice gets its vibrant hue from a pigment called anthocyanin, which is known for its antioxidant properties. This rice variety is high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to any diet.

Its nutty flavor adds a unique depth to stir-fries, salads, and pilafs. Red rice also has a slightly chewy texture, which adds a pleasant bite to your meals.

Black Rice

After discussing the deliciousness of Red Rice, let’s now move on to another fantastic type of rice for Vietnamese cuisine: Black Rice.

I must say, I absolutely love the unique flavor and texture of Black Rice. It has a nutty taste that adds a wonderful depth to any dish it’s used in.

Not only is it incredibly flavorful, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Black Rice is rich in antioxidants and contains high levels of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It’s a healthier alternative to white rice and adds a beautiful visual contrast to any plate.

Whether it’s in a comforting bowl of Black Rice Congee or a vibrant Black Rice Salad, this rice variety never fails to impress.

Wild Rice

Moving on to the next rice variety, let’s talk about Wild Rice and its unique characteristics.

Wild Rice is not technically a rice, but rather a type of grass seed. It has a distinct nutty flavor and a chewy texture that adds a delicious complexity to dishes. As a whole grain, it is high in fiber, protein, and antioxidants, making it a nutritious choice.

Despite its name, Wild Rice is cultivated in paddies and harvested by hand, which contributes to its higher price compared to other rice varieties. It is commonly used in pilafs, soups, and salads, adding a rich and earthy taste.

When cooked, Wild Rice has a dark color and a long, slender shape. Its versatility and unique taste make it a fantastic addition to any Vietnamese meal.

Fragrant Rice

To fully appreciate the aroma and flavor of fragrant rice, you should try cooking it with a tight-fitting lid to seal in the steam. This method allows the rice to cook evenly and retain its natural fragrance.

As I lift the lid, the scent of the cooked rice fills the kitchen, instantly making my mouth water. The grains are fluffy and separate, with a delicate floral aroma that is irresistible. Each mouthful is a delight, as the fragrance lingers on my taste buds.

Whether I’m enjoying it as a side dish or using it as a base for a flavorful stir-fry, fragrant rice adds a subtle yet delightful element to any meal. The lid is the secret to unlocking the true essence of this rice variety, ensuring a truly satisfying culinary experience.

Sushi Rice

Now, let’s talk about sushi rice, which is another excellent type of rice for Vietnamese cuisine. I personally love using sushi rice because of its sticky texture and mild flavor. It’s perfect for making dishes like sushi rolls and rice balls.

Sushi rice, also known as Japanese short-grain rice, has a higher starch content, which gives it that desirable stickiness. The grains are plump and tender, making it easy to shape and mold into various forms.

When cooked, sushi rice absorbs flavors well, making it an ideal base for adding other ingredients. It provides a delicate balance to the vibrant flavors found in Vietnamese cuisine.

Whether you’re making traditional sushi or exploring Vietnamese fusion dishes, sushi rice is a versatile and delicious option. Its unique characteristics make it a must-have for any rice lover who wants to experiment with different flavors and textures.