Thai Lemongrass Rice

Thai lemongrass rice is flavorful rice that goes well with any type of Thai curries. This is so easy to prepare. Jasmine rice goes well for Thai-based food. If you do not have jasmine rice you can look for other flavorful rice like basmati rice. To make it flavorful we are using only two ingredients lemongrass and cardamom.

You can serve it with Yellow Thai curry and Green Thai curry.

The choices are many you can add spring onions, chilies, corn, or any one particular vegetable, I served this with curry so want to keep it simple. If you are not serving with rich curry, Thai lemongrass rice can be cooked in coconut milk.

Food for the thought

“You have brains in your head;
have feet in your shoes;
You can steer yourself in any direction you choose;
You’re on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the one who’ll decide where to go…”

― Dr. Seuss

Benefits of the ingredients (source)

Lemongrass: reportedly has antibacterial and antifungal properties. It has traditionally been used as a pain reliever and fever reducer. Lemongrass contains citrus, a natural plant compound with anti-inflammatory effects.
Cardamom: contains chemicals that might treat intestinal spasms, kill some bacteria, reduce swelling, and help the immune system.
Jasmine rice:  provides enough vital B vitamins which are essential for the body. They are gluten-free.

Video for preparing Thai lemongrass rice

Steps for making Thai lemongrass rice

1. Wash and soak the rice for 15-30 minutes. Drain them.
2. Boil water and add the crushed cardamom and lemongrass.
3. Once it comes to boil add the drained rice and cook for 10 minutes or until fluffy.

Variations

Rice: Use basmati rice or brown rice if you don’t find jasmine rice.
Lemongrass: Dry lemongrass can also be used.
Use spring onions or corn.

Other rice recipes

• Spinach rice (Greek version)
• Cranberry fried rice
• Black rice pudding
• Mexican Tomato rice
• Mushroom and spinach fried rice

Other Thai recipes

• Green papaya salad | Vegan som tum
• Thai Pineapple & Cucumber salad In wonton Cups
• Mushroom Tom Yum Soup

Questions/Tips

What is the ratio of rice and water should I use?

Use 1:2 of rice to water. I used it for my curry and liked it to be sticky. If you want a fluffy rice use 1:1 ratio.

How to make a rich Thai rice?

Use coconut milk instead of water to make it creamy, rich and more sticky rice.

In what method can I cook rice?

Rice cooker method: Follow the same steps like soaking, draining, and use the cook mode to cook rice.
Instant pot method: Follow the steps and use pressure cook mode in high and set the time for 8 minutes in the ratio of 1:1.
Stove-top method: Check the recipe card.

How to meal-prep Thai rice?

Follow the instruction as per the recipe card and allow the rice to cool completely. The given quantity of rice is for 4 people. Split the rice into 4 containers or freezer-friendly bags. If using bags keep the rice and close the zipper tightly. And tap it gently into a flat bag so that you will have space in your freezer.
To serve or pack, defrost overnight in the refrigerator. Microwave or use a double boiler system to warm your rice. Do not put directly into the pan. The rice may become dry.

Recipe card for Thai lemongrass rice