15 Iconic Rice Dishes from Southeast Asia to Savor

Rice isn’t just food in Southeast Asia—it’s life. Across the region, rice is the foundation of every meal, and it’s amazing how many creative and downright delicious ways people have found to cook it. From savory fried rice dishes that pack a punch to sweet and creamy desserts you won’t forget, each dish tells its own story. So, if you want to experience a part of Southeast Asia’s diverse culture, here are some olf their iconic rice dishes to savor!

Nasi Goreng (Indonesia)

Nasi Goreng, Indonesia’s beloved fried rice, is a flavorful and smoky dish packed with bold flavors. To prepare, heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a wok and sauté 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 shallots, and 1 chopped chili until aromatic. Add 4 cups of cooked rice and stir-fry with 3 tablespoons of sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) and 1 tablespoon of regular soy sauce. Toss in vegetables like carrots and peas, along with shrimp or chicken for a heartier version. Top the dish with a fried egg and garnish with fried shallots and a wedge of lime. Each spoonful delivers a harmonious mix of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors, making it a signature comfort food in Indonesia.

Hainanese Chicken Rice (Singapore)

Hainanese Chicken Rice is Singapore’s national dish, admired for its simplicity and sophistication. Start by poaching a whole chicken (around 3-4 lbs) in a pot with 8 cups of water, 4 slices of ginger, and 3 green onions for about 40 minutes. Remove the chicken and dunk it in ice water to retain its tenderness. Use 2 cups of the chicken broth to cook 2 cups of jasmine rice, adding 2 minced garlic cloves and a tablespoon of ginger for flavor. Slice the chicken and serve it over the rice, accompanied by chili sauce, soy sauce, and ginger paste. This dish’s balance of textures and flavors—tender chicken, fragrant rice, and zesty sauces—makes it a timeless Southeast Asian favorite.

Khao Pad (Thailand)

Khao Pad, Thai fried rice, is a versatile dish bursting with fresh, tangy, and savory notes. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan and fry 2 minced garlic cloves until fragrant. Crack 2 eggs into the pan, scrambling them lightly, and then add 3 cups of cooked jasmine rice. Stir in 2 tablespoons of fish sauce, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon of sugar for a balanced taste. Add your choice of protein—shrimp, chicken, or tofu—and mix in a handful of scallions. Serve with cucumber slices and lime wedges. The vibrant flavors of Khao Pad, enhanced by fresh garnishes, make it a beloved dish across Thailand.

Nasi Lemak (Malaysia)

Nasi Lemak is Malaysia’s national dish, featuring creamy coconut rice with spicy and savory sides. Cook 2 cups of jasmine rice with 1 cup of coconut milk, 2 cups of water, and 3 pandan leaves for its signature aroma. Serve the rice with sambal (a spicy chili paste made from 4 chilies, 1 garlic clove, and 1 tablespoon of tamarind paste), boiled eggs, fried anchovies, and roasted peanuts. For a heartier version, add a side of chicken curry or beef rendang. The creamy, fragrant rice perfectly complements the spicy and salty accompaniments. Nasi Lemak is a true celebration of Malaysia’s diverse culinary influences.

Biryani (Malaysia and Singapore)

Southeast Asian biryani is a fusion of Indian spices and local flavors, creating a dish that’s both rich and aromatic. Begin by marinating 1 pound of chicken or mutton with 1 cup of yogurt, 2 teaspoons of garam masala, and 1 teaspoon of turmeric. Cook 2 cups of basmati rice in a separate pot with 4 cups of water, 4 cardamom pods, and 1 cinnamon stick until partially cooked. Layer the rice and marinated meat in a pot, adding fried onions and saffron-infused milk between layers. Cover tightly and cook on low heat for 30 minutes. Serve with raita or curry for a complete meal. The fragrant spices and tender meat make biryani a festive dish for any occasion.

Com Tam (Vietnam)

Com Tam, or broken rice, transforms humble rice grains into a delightful meal. Grill marinated pork chops (marinate with 2 tablespoons of fish sauce, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce) over medium heat until caramelized. Serve the pork with 2 cups of steamed broken rice, a fried egg, pickled vegetables, and a drizzle of nuoc cham (Vietnamese dipping sauce made with fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar). Garnish with scallion oil and crispy pork skin for extra flavor and texture. The smoky pork pairs beautifully with the soft, fluffy rice. Com Tam is a satisfying dish that’s both hearty and deliciously balanced.

Nasi Uduk (Indonesia)

Nasi Uduk is an Indonesian rice dish cooked with coconut milk and fragrant spices. Combine 2 cups of jasmine rice, 1 cup of coconut milk, 2 cups of water, 1 stalk of lemongrass, and 3 pandan leaves in a rice cooker. Once cooked, fluff the rice and serve it with sides like fried chicken, sambal, boiled eggs, and crispy fried tempeh. A sprinkling of fried shallots adds a delightful crunch. This dish’s creamy, aromatic rice and its assortment of flavorful sides make it a popular choice for breakfast or lunch. Nasi Uduk represents the comforting and diverse flavors of Indonesia.

Khao Niao Mamuang (Thailand)

Khao Niao Mamuang, or mango sticky rice, is a beloved Thai dessert with a perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess. Soak 1 cup of glutinous rice for 4 hours, then steam it until tender. Mix 1 cup of coconut milk with 3 tablespoons of sugar and a pinch of salt, then pour half over the cooked rice to let it absorb the flavor. Serve the rice with slices of ripe mango and drizzle the remaining sweetened coconut milk on top. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for texture. This refreshing dessert is a tropical delight and a favorite during Thailand’s mango season.

Bagoong Fried Rice (Philippines)

Bagoong Fried Rice is a Filipino specialty combining the bold, savory flavor of shrimp paste with vibrant accompaniments. Begin by stir-frying 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 diced onion in 2 tablespoons of oil. Add 1 tablespoon of bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) and cook until aromatic. Stir in 4 cups of cooked rice and mix well. Add diced green mangoes, tomatoes, and grilled pork or shrimp for extra flavor and texture. This unique dish delivers a delightful balance of salty, sour, and savory flavors that showcases the bold creativity of Filipino cuisine.

Nasi Kerabu (Malaysia)

Nasi Kerabu is a visually stunning Malaysian dish featuring blue rice colored with butterfly pea flowers. To prepare, soak 1 cup of butterfly pea flowers in hot water, strain, and use the blue liquid to cook 2 cups of jasmine rice. Serve the vibrant rice with grilled fish, salted eggs, fresh herbs, and a generous dollop of sambal. Add keropok (fish crackers) for a satisfying crunch. The dish’s blend of flavors and textures is as impressive as its striking appearance. Nasi Kerabu is a true feast for the senses, celebrating Malaysia’s rich food culture.

Claypot Chicken Rice (Malaysia and Singapore)

Claypot Chicken Rice is a hearty one-pot meal, popular for its rich, smoky flavors. Begin by marinating 1 pound of chicken pieces with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. In a clay pot, combine 2 cups of rice, 4 cups of water, and the marinated chicken. Add slices of Chinese sausage and mushrooms, then cook on low heat until the rice is tender and develops a crispy bottom layer. Drizzle with a mixture of soy sauce and scallion oil before serving. This dish’s combination of textures and umami-rich flavors makes it a comforting favorite.

Lontong (Indonesia)

Lontong is an Indonesian rice cake that is both versatile and satisfying. Start by tightly wrapping 2 cups of uncooked rice in banana leaves and boiling it for 2 hours until it forms a firm log. Let it cool, then slice into disks and serve with sayur lodeh (a coconut milk vegetable curry) or satay with peanut sauce. The banana leaves infuse the rice with a subtle earthy aroma. Lontong’s chewy texture and ability to pair with rich, spicy dishes make it a staple in Indonesian cuisine.

Banh Xeo with Rice Paper (Vietnam)

Banh Xeo is a Vietnamese rice pancake filled with a savory mixture of shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. To make, mix 1 cup of rice flour, 1/2 cup of coconut milk, 1/2 cup of water, and 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric to form a batter. Heat a pan, pour in the batter, and cook until crispy, adding the filling before folding it. Serve with rice paper for wrapping, fresh herbs, and a side of nuoc cham dipping sauce. The hands-on experience and crispy textures make Banh Xeo an unforgettable dish.

Khao Tom (Thailand)

Khao Tom is a comforting Thai rice soup that’s perfect for a light meal or as a soothing remedy. Simmer 1 cup of jasmine rice in 6 cups of chicken or pork broth until it becomes soft and porridge-like. Add minced pork or shrimp, season with 2 tablespoons of fish sauce, and garnish with fried garlic, scallions, and a squeeze of lime. This dish is hearty yet light, offering a nourishing blend of flavors. Khao Tom’s simplicity and warmth make it a go-to meal for any time of day.

Char Kway Teow with Rice Noodles (Malaysia)

Char Kway Teow is a stir-fried noodle dish using flat rice noodles for a smoky, savory flavor. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a wok, then stir-fry 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon of chili paste. Add 2 cups of flat rice noodles, bean sprouts, shrimp, and slices of Chinese sausage. Toss everything on high heat until well combined and slightly charred. Garnish with scallions and serve hot. Char Kway Teow’s bold flavors and delightful wok hei (smoky essence) make it one of Malaysia’s most iconic dishes.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

More From RetailShout

15 Top Trader Joe‘s Products for Elevating Your Baking Game

Baking at home can be so much fun, especially when you have the right ingredients on hand to make your creations even better. Trader Joe’s is packed with hidden gems that can totally elevate your baking game. Read More.

Staying healthy doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive, and ALDI proves that with its awesome range of fitness and health products. They’ve really stepped up with options that are not only affordable but also effective and convenient for all kinds of fitness levels and lifestyles. Read More.

As the weather cools down, nothing brings more warmth and coziness than a good comfort meal. Costco has some amazing options for hearty, delicious foods that will keep you feeling full and satisfied during the colder months. Read More.