Homely Pan-Asian rice dishes to try this winter

Pan-Asian rice dishes are delicious, cosy, healthy for winter, and contain flavours that fit right. These dishes are served hot and contain warming ingredients like garlic, ginger, and chilli, similar to the spices we enjoy in our native food.

The shrimp, chicken, and eggs in these recipes are full of protein. The soft, crispy, chewy, and juicy textures make eating more enjoyable.

Bangladeshi Kimchi fried rice

A Bangladeshi version of kimchi fried rice would consist of the locally available radish (moola) or cabbage. Spicy homemade or store-bought kimchi gets added to a hot pan, where it sizzles with garlic and a dash of sesame oil.

Steamed rice and a touch of soy sauce are combined, letting the tangy, spicy kimchi flavour soak into the grains. For a touch of protein, a fried egg is placed on top, with green onions and a sprinkle of black sesame seeds, adding colour and flavour. This dish is slightly spicy, gut-friendly, and perfect for anyone looking for something different.

Thai basil fried rice with local herbs

Holy Basil (Tulsi) or any local basil variety gets tossed into a hot pan with minced garlic, chillies, and a dash of fish sauce, creating an aromatic base.

Thinly sliced chicken or tofu is added and cooked until golden brown. Steamed rice and a dash of soy sauce combine, allowing the basil's fragrance to infuse the dish.

This rice is both fragrant and slightly spicy, perfect for a cold winter day. Tulsi brings an immunity-boosting quality that's ideal for the season.

Garlic chilli shrimp fried rice

Fresh Bangladeshi shrimp gets tossed in a hot pan with minced garlic, green chillies, and a splash of sesame oil until it's pink and tender.

Cooked rice is added, absorbing the flavorful oil left from the shrimp. A quick splash of soy sauce and a dash of chilli flakes give the rice a spicy, savoury flavour.

Garnished with chopped coriander and a sprinkle of black pepper, this dish is a satisfying option packed with protein and flavour, perfect for a quick and healthy lunch.

Pineapple and Cashew fried rice

Fresh pineapple chunks and cashews are lightly toasted in a hot pan, bringing out their natural sweetness and nuttiness. Garlic, ginger, and a splash of soy sauce create a flavorful base, and steamed rice is added, absorbing the sweet and savoury flavours.

A sprinkle of chopped green onions and red chilli flakes finishes the dish, adding colour and flavour. The tropical sweetness of pineapple with the crunch of cashews makes this dish a fun and refreshing winter meal, balancing warmth with a hint of fruitiness.

Ginger soy vegetable fried rice

Fresh ginger and garlic are cooked in sesame oil until their aroma fills the air, releasing a warming fragrance perfect for winter. Thinly sliced carrots, green beans, and bell peppers are added and lightly stir-fried until they turn tender.

Steamed rice joins the mix, absorbing the flavours of soy sauce and a hint of fish sauce for an umami depth. A sprinkle of chopped green onions and sesame seeds finishes this dish, giving it a fresh Asian twist. This recipe is light- and nutrient-packed, making it an excellent option for those trying to eat healthy during the colder months.

Vegetable egg fried rice with a Bangladeshi twist

Locally grown vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and green beans are cooked in the pan with garlic and a hint of ginger. Beaten eggs are added and scrambled in the same pan until fluffy and lightly golden.

Cold steamed rice goes in, followed by a splash of soy sauce, and everything gets tossed until combined. A sprinkle of black pepper and sliced green onions finish the dish.

This fried rice is simple but satisfying, with each ingredient bringing a unique texture and flavour. It's a balanced dish with protein, fibre, and essential vitamins.