What To Eat With White Rice? 25 Simple & Delish Pairings!

Not sure what to eat with white rice?

White rice can be a blank slate to create a delicious meal and these 25 simple and delish pairings are the perfect place to start!

Rice is one of the most versatile ingredients in any kitchen.

It’s healthy, filling, and surprisingly easy to combine with other items for an impressive meal.

Whether you’re looking for something quick and light or a heavy but super flavorful feast, this list has it all.

From chicken curry stir-fry to tofu veggie bowls, I’m here to give you plenty of incredibly tasty options that will make white rice shine.

No more boring meals!

Let’s get cooking!

What To Eat With White Rice? 25 Simple & Delish Pairings!

White rice is a great side dish that can be paired with all kinds of dishes, from salads to stir-fries.

But what should you eat with white rice?

Here are 25 simple and delicious pairings that will make your meal complete:

1. Teriyaki Chicken Donburi

When it comes to elevating a bowl of white rice, you can’t go wrong with Teriyaki Chicken Donburi.

This classic Japanese-style dish is a perfect balance of sweet and savory – the teriyaki sauce adds the perfect hint of umami while the chicken keeps things light and airy.

This meal never fails to add an extra kick of flavor to your day.

The combination creates an addictive harmony that will make even the skeptics swoon.

Plus, its easy-to-make nature makes it dinner party friendly for nights when you want something special but don’t have all night in the kitchen.

Try it once and I guarantee you’ll be hooked! 😋

2. Furikake Salmon

Furikake salmon – now that’s the real deal.

Not only does this salty and savory twist turn a simple bowl of white rice into something magical, but it also packs in some extra love for your taste buds.

The combination of juicy salmon, crunchy sesame seeds, and flavorful furikake seasoning is like a flavor fiesta in your mouth.

If you’re looking to add some healthy omega-3’s to your diet without sacrificing flavor, this dish is definitely for you.

Not to mention the fact that it takes hardly any time at all – from prep to plate, dinner can be ready in under 20 minutes!

Now that’s what I call dinner made easy.

3. Breakfast Fried Rice

Breakfast Fried Rice.

It’s the perfect companion to your humble bowl of white rice.

Now you don’t have to settle for the same meal every day – with a few simple ingredients like eggs, bacon, and veggies this dish is transformed into something special.

It’s like your favorite morning breakfast turned upside down and put in a bowl.

Hearty enough to fill you up but light enough that it won’t weigh you down.

Plus, it can be customized pretty much any way you want- add your favorite protein or keep it vegetarian- the world is yours!

4. Spam Musubi

Spam Musubi – the Hawaiian dish of succulent rice, salty Spam, and fluffy nori.

This delicious snack is like a happy marriage between east meets west!

Whether you’re looking for an easy-to-make breakfast or just want to give your white rice some extra love and flavor, Spam Musubi won’t disappoint.

All you need to do is top a block of Japanese-style sticky rice with flavorful slices of teriyaki glazed Spam and wrap it up in crispy seaweed to enjoy this delightful combination.

It’s like taking a mini vacation without having to leave your kitchen!

5. Bavette Steak

Bavette steak, the cost-friendly cut of beef that’s often overshadowed by its more expensive alternatives.

But don’t let its low price tag fool ya; this fatty, flavorful delicacy will have your white rice singing!

The perfect meeting point between a flank and skirt steak, bavette is best cooked to medium rare or medium.

The sweet caramelization and intense flavors come out when you sear it in a skillet or on the grill.

On top of all that umami goodness, it’s also leaner than some other cuts of meat, meaning there’s fewer calories – win-win!

6. Crunchy California Roll

California rolls: they aren’t your typical side dish but they sure bring zest and crunch to white rice.

These Nori-wrapped parcels of sushi goodness add sweetness, texture, color, and a hint of wasabi oomph that can turn bland old white rice into a culinary delight.

If you want to make it even healthier (and more delicious!), swap out the mayo-based filling with sweet mango slices, cucumber spears and smoky salmon – yum!

7. Chicken Katsu

Chicken Katsu and white rice are the ultimate food couple.

You know, that dynamic duo you can always count on to deliver a delicious meal.

Together they create an unmistakable harmony of umami flavors, making your tastebuds tingle with joy!

It’s also such an easy dish to make. Just pan-fry some chicken until it’s nice and crispy while the rice cooks away in its own steamy bubble bath – so amazing yet so effortless.

And topping off your fluffy mound of white rice with a golden brown cutlet turns this basic side dish into something extraordinary.

So why not give both these ingredients a chance and see where it takes you?

8. Soft Boiled Eggs

Soft-boiled eggs – the perfect complement to a steaming bowl of white rice.

A smooth and creamy center, surrounded by bright yellow yolk.

Talk about a flavor party!

Not to mention they come packed with nutrients like protein, vitamins, and minerals.

When added to your plate of white rice, the contrasting textures make it even more fun and inviting.

Plus, soft-boiled eggs take no time at all to whip up so you can get your meal on the table fast.

What’s not to love?

9. Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bowl

Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bowl – the perfect companion to your rice.

This flavor bomb of a meal combines crunchy vegetables, savory salmon, and sticky-sweet teriyaki that’ll tantalize your taste buds.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to get in your Omega-3s and Vitamins A & C.

This sushi bowl is the total package: It looks beautiful on the plate, tastes heavenly in your mouth, and is healthy for you — what more could you ask for?

So let’s ditch the white rice blues with this twist on an old favorite; trust me when I say that one bite will have you hooked for life!

10. Unagi Sushi (Eel Hand Roll)

This variation of hand roll – with its toothsome and subtly sweet eel slices wrapped around warm sushi rice- can take a simple bowl of steamed white rice to new heights, adding both flavor and texture.

While it may seem intimidating at first, don’t forget that unagi sushi holds an ace up its sleeve – the mildness of unagi is so versatile that you can easily pair it with various seasonings or sauces!

From teriyaki to creamy avocado sauce, there are lots of delicious possibilities for your next meal. Unagi + White Rice = A match made in heaven 💕

11. Crispy-Skinned Fish Fillets

Crispy-skinned fish fillets and white rice—they were meant for each other. It’s a match made in heaven.

The flaky, soft texture of the fish works perfectly to contrast the fluffy rice grains.

Plus, adding this seafood protein to your meal cuts down on cooking time by leaps and bounds compared to other proteins, like chicken or beef.

You can even jazz it up with various seasonings—garlic ginger, perhaps?

Or lemon pepper?

Yum!

And fish isn’t just tasty; it’s also full of healthy omega-3 fatty acids that are great for your heart and brain health.

With pairings as perfect as a crisp-skinned fish fillet with fluffy white rice… how could you resist? 😉

12. Bacon and Egg Breakfast Rice Bowl

Cue the bacon and egg breakfast rice bowl – a modern-day spin on an old classic that’ll have you coming back for seconds.

Packed with fave flavors of yesterday, like smoky bacon, scrambled eggs, and fluffy white rice, it’s sure to satisfy those comfort food cravings no matter what time of the day it is.

Craving something creamy?

Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for some extra tang.

And if you’re feeling bold, sprinkle on some jalapeño peppers or your favorite hot sauce– this dish can take the heat! It’s an all-in-one meal with maximum flavor− perfect for picky eaters and creative cooks alike.

13. Salmon Sashimi Bowl (Donburi)

Salmon sashimi donburi – the sushi-lovers favorite!

This bowl is like a party in your mouth, with its layers of flavor.

Start by topping white rice with succulent salmon sashimi, then top it off with pickled ginger and micro greens for a fresh crunch.

Add a drizzle of soy sauce and sprinkle of furikake seasoning, and you’ve got yourself one delicious dish.

It’s clean but satisfying.

Refreshing yet filling.

It’s basically (culinary) perfection – taking simple ingredients and elevating them to create an unforgettable meal.

So why not try this out next time you’re serving up some white rice?

14. Furikake and Lemon Shishito Peppers

What’s better than a bowl of white rice?

One topped with Furikake and Lemon Shishito Peppers.

It’s like a party for your tastebuds, but without all the cleanup afterwards.

Furikake is Japanese seasoning that adds an umami-packed punch to any dish, while the acidity of the lightly charred Lemon Shishito Peppers makes your mouth water in anticipation of what’s coming next.

Together they create a dish that’s both sweet and savory with just enough heat to keep things interesting.

Mmmhmmm…rice never looked so good!

15. Extra-Creamy Scrambled Eggs

Extra-creamy scrambled eggs – the perfect companion for your bowl of white rice.

Think about it.

The fluffiness of the egg mixed with its silky texture takes this dish to a whole new level of amazingness.

Plus, we’re talking extra-creamy here so you know you’re in for a treat!

Think outside the box and play around with flavors and ingredients like diced ham, bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach.

Who knows?

You might just have yourself an award-winning combination.

But whatever ingredients you choose and however you mix them together – add cream cheese to your eggs for that unbeatable and unforgettable finish…your taste buds will thank you!

16. Whole Roasted Chicken

Let’s spice up that bowl of white rice and give it new life.

Whole roasted chicken – now there’s a dish that won’t disappoint!

Juicy, succulent, and loaded with flavor, this classic protein source is the ultimate addition to any plate.

And don’t forget about all those tasty leftovers you can get out of it.

Transform your rice from plain to marvelous in no time — just add chicken!

17. Spicy Ahi Poke

Spicy Ahi Poke is a match made in heaven with white rice.

This seared, marinated tuna gives the otherwise mild-tasting grain a flavorful and exotic twist.

You’ll never look at plain old white rice the same way again!

Plus, it only takes minutes to make – just sear off some fresh tuna chunks with chili and garlic before serving over steamed white rice.

Yum!

Spicy Ahi Poke is that little something extra you need to take this classic dish to the next level.

18. Healthy Turkey Chili

Turkey chili and white rice – a match made in heaven.

This casually sophisticated combo tastes like the perfect balance of comfort and nutrition.

If you thought it couldn’t get any better, think again.

Spicing up your white rice with a hearty helping of turkey chili will make it anything but boring.

Plus, just one cup will add almost 15 grams of protein to your meal without compromising flavor or texture.

That’s music to my ears!

19. Make Spam, Eggs, and Rice

Move over, plain white rice.

We’re about to take things up a notch with spam, eggs, and – of course – the star of the show: the humble grain we all know and love.

This dish has it all: salty Spam pieces combined with delicate scrambled eggs make a delicious pairing that adds an interesting twist to regular ol’ white rice.

Plus, it’s easy enough for beginner undomesticated chefs to cook!

All you have to do is fry up some Spam slices in a pan, scramble some eggs in there as well until they look fluffy and cooked thoroughly.

Then add your hot cooked white rice into the pan and mix everything together into one savory endeavor sure to tantalize taste buds around the table!

20. Broiled Salmon Collars (Sake Kama)

Let’s get a little wild with your white rice.

That’s right, it’s time to add some Broiled Salmon Collars – aka Sake Kama – to the party.

This delicious Japanese delicacy is the perfect way to take your rice from bland to bodacious in just a few bites.

Crispy and grilled on the outside, tender and flaky on the inside, these collars are full of flavor you won’t find anywhere else.

But beware: one bite of this salty-sweet combo may have you drooling for more!

And why not?

It’s an easy way to dress up any plate of plain ol’ white rice and make it something special.

21. Unadon (Grilled Eel Rice Bowl)

Unadon – the All-Star of Japanese rice bowls.

This dish is truly one-of-a-kind and brings an exciting flavor to your everyday white rice.

Grilled eel in sweet soy sauce, piled on top of sticky white jasmine rice?

Yes, please! It’s a combination that I can’t resist.

Unadon may be simple, but it sure does pack a flavorful punch!

The sweetness from the sweet soy sauce and tender texture of grilled eel make this dish incredibly pleasing to both the eyes and taste buds.

For those feeling extra adventurous, don’t forget to add some pickled ginger or shredded seaweed for a Pop’n Fresh twist!

22. Balsamic Tofu

With balsamic tofu, we can take that bowl of plain white rice and turn it into a wholesome and tantalizing meal.

This fragrant vegan dish balances sweet with savory as it is cooked in a rich balsamic glaze for an unforgettable explosion of flavors.

Plus, the added protein from the tofu makes it filling enough to satisfy even the heartiest appetite.

So don’t settle for boring when you can go bold!

Let’s add some excitement to this classic side with balsamic tofu – making every spoonful so tasty you won’t be able to resist going back for seconds (or thirds). 😋

23. Shrimp Curry

Shrimp Curry – the perfect way to shake up a bowl of boring white rice.

Its rich flavors, vibrant colors, and mild spice fill the air with an aroma that takes your tastebuds on a journey.

Not to mention its impressive nutritional profile!

Whether you’re looking for something savory or sweet, creamy or crunchy, shrimp curry is an adventure worth taking.

Let’s face it – this flavor-packed combo just can’t be beat.

So next time your plate needs a punch of flavor, don’t hesitate to give this classic dish a try – you won’t regret it!

24. Pickled Veggies

Pickled veggies: the perfect mixture of tangy, sweet, and spicy all rolled into one delicious side.

This bowl of white rice is crying out for a punch of flavor – and there’s no better way to deliver it than with some pickles!

Think slices of cucumber, carrots, radishes…the options are endless!

Take your meal up a notch by adding freshly chopped herbs or even jalapeños if you’re feeling feisty.

Either way, Pickled Veggies will give your bland old bowl of plain rice the life it desperately needs.

25. Beef Bulgogi

Beef Bulgogi – the perfect companion for plain ol’ white rice.

This Korean classic is a flavor bomb like no other.

Sweet, salty, and infused with garlic and sesame oil, it packs enough punch to transform even the simplest bowl of steamed grain into something special.

Plus, its fiery shade of red looks absolutely stunning against a backdrop of pure white.

So go on and give this dish a unique twist – you won’t regret it! 😉

Conclusion?

In conclusion, white rice is a versatile side dish that can be enjoyed with a variety of foods.

From teriyaki chicken donburi to crunchy California rolls, there are plenty of delicious options to choose from.

The best dishes to pair with white rice are teriyaki chicken donburi, furikake salmon, breakfast fried rice, spam musubi, bavette steak, crunchy California roll, chicken katsu, soft boiled eggs, teriyaki salmon don, and unagi hand roll.

These dishes will add flavor and texture to your meal, and will make sure that you never get bored of eating white rice.

With these 25 simple and delicious pairings, you’ll be able to enjoy white rice any day of the week.