Plated: Rice Bowls

Robust, Simple, and Delicious

Rice bowls are a bowl-based meal that has soared in popularity thanks to their versatility. With a combination of simple ingredients, you can create many meals. Plus, you can prepare several bowls for quick, on-the-go lunches, or eat immediately for dinner. Regardless of the time of day, its simplicity makes it a dish anyone can prepare and enjoy.

Mississippi is one of the top six rice-producing states in the United States, making rice a significant Magnolia state crop. In 2023, Mississippi harvested 8,791,000 hundredweight of rice from 118,000 acres of land, with a production value of $135 million. Bolivar County is the top rice-producing county in Mississippi.

To make a rice bowl, start with a base of simple white rice, or choose brown or wild rice for more fiber and rich flavors. Rice, especially brown rice, is a healthy grain with a high source of fiber and folate. Try basmati, jasmine, or even yellow rice. There is no shame in using 90-second or quick-cooking rice. However, cooking rice from scratch is cost-effective for feeding a crowd. Pro tip: once rice starts to simmer, wait to stir it until it’s done!

You can put almost anything into a rice bowl; however, most meals include protein and some combination of vegetables. Pick proteins that are symmetrical in shape and size for easy eating: shredded, cubed, or strips of chicken or steak. Even eggs, shrimp, or seafood filets that can be cut with a fork work well in bowls. Vegetarian options include beans, lentils, quinoa, tofu, and tempeh.

Pile on the vegetables to add color, texture, taste, and nutrition. Choose from raw, steamed, roasted, sauteed vegetables or fresh greens. Even pickled vegetables can add flavor and crunch. Spice it up with diced or sliced jalapenos or an array of sauces such as soy sauce, rice vinegar, Hoisin sauce, or pink sauce.

One of the most convenient aspects of rice bowls is that almost all the ingredients can be made ahead. Store prepared ingredients in separator containers until ready to serve. If you choose to make the protein and vegetables ahead for on-the-go lunches, go ahead and add those to individual containers, and utilize microwavable rice to have fresh rice for every meal.

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