Sticky rice, also known as glutinous rice, is a staple in many Asian cuisines. Its unique, chewy texture and sweet flavor make it a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of dishes.
Here, I have put together a list of 15 amazing side dishes to serve with sticky rice.
Looking for a quick answer?
The best side dishes to serve with sticky rice are mango, steamed dumplings, Japanese curry, chicken pad Thai, beef jerky, egg rolls, vegetarian curry, dragon roll, grilled shrimp, stir-fried vegetables, chicken satay, pork belly, fried tofu, teriyaki chicken, and green papaya salad.
Now, let's get cooking!
Table of Contents
1. Steamed Dumplings
A classic pairing, steamed dumplings and sticky rice go hand in hand. The soft, tender dumplings filled with a mixture of vegetables or meat, offer a delightful contrast in texture and taste with the sticky rice. It's like a match made in culinary heaven.
2. Japanese Curry
Japanese curry is a flavorful, savory dish that pairs perfectly with the mild taste of sticky rice. The rich sauce and tender chunks of meat or vegetables provide a hearty and satisfying side dish. The rice soaks up the curry, making each bite a burst of flavor.
3. Mango
A ripe, juicy mango can be a sweet and refreshing side dish to serve with sticky rice. In many Asian cuisines, mango is actually used as a key component in desserts that feature sticky rice. The sweetness of the mango complements the flavor of the rice perfectly, and its bright, tropical flavor can provide a lovely contrast to more savory dishes.
4. Chicken Pad Thai
The complex flavors of chicken pad Thai work wonderfully with sticky rice. The mix of sweet, sour, and spicy in the pad Thai complements the simplicity of the rice. The noodles and chicken offer a substantial texture that contrasts with the stickiness of the rice.
5. Beef Jerky
The salty, savory flavors of beef jerky provide an excellent contrast to the sweetness of sticky rice. The chewiness of the jerky and the stickiness of the rice make for an interesting and delicious combination.
6. Egg Rolls
Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, egg rolls are a delicious side dish for sticky rice. The crunchiness of the egg roll wrapper and the soft, flavorful filling offer a great contrast to the rice. You can choose from a variety of fillings like vegetables, chicken, or pork.
7. Vegetarian Curry
Vegetarian curry is a flavorful and hearty dish that pairs beautifully with sticky rice. The spices in the curry are absorbed by the rice, making it a flavor-packed meal. Plus, it's a great vegetarian option that doesn't skimp on taste.
8. Dragon Roll
A type of sushi roll, the dragon roll is usually made with eel and cucumber. Its combination of flavors and textures makes it a great side dish to serve with sticky rice. The sushi rice and the sticky rice complement each other while the eel and cucumber add a unique flavor and crunch.
9. Grilled Shrimp
Grilled shrimp adds a touch of smokiness that pairs well with the sticky rice. The tender, juicy shrimp have a subtle sweetness that complements the flavor of the rice. This is a light and delicious side dish that doesn't overpower the main dish.
10. Stir-Fried Vegetables
A simple stir-fry of your favorite vegetables is a healthy and tasty side dish for sticky rice. The vegetables add color and texture, while a light sauce can bring additional flavor. The crispiness of the vegetables contrasts nicely with the soft, chewy rice.
11. Chicken Satay
Chicken satay, skewers of grilled chicken served with a peanut sauce, is a delicious option. The charred, smoky flavor of the chicken and the rich, creamy peanut sauce are a perfect match for the sweet, sticky rice.
12. Pork Belly
Pork belly, with its perfect balance of meat and fat, delivers a burst of flavor that pairs excellently with sticky rice. The rice helps to balance out the rich, fatty flavors of the pork, creating a meal that is both filling and satisfying.
13. Fried Tofu
Fried tofu is a fantastic vegetarian option that pairs well with sticky rice. The tofu's crisp exterior and soft interior provide a pleasing contrast to the chewiness of the rice. Plus, tofu's mild flavor makes it a versatile pairing.
14. Teriyaki Chicken
The sweet and savory flavors of teriyaki chicken are a natural fit with sticky rice. The sauce from the chicken seeps into the rice, infusing it with flavor. This is a crowd-pleaser that's sure to satisfy.
15. Green Papaya Salad
This refreshing, tangy, and slightly spicy salad offers a wonderful contrast to the sweet sticky rice. The crunch of the unripe papaya, the tanginess of the lime, and the heat from the chilies all play off the sticky rice beautifully.
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Ingredients
- 1 sticky rice
Instructions
- Make the best sticky rice using your favorite recipe.
- Make a side dish from the list above. You can eat sticky rice with mango, steamed dumplings, Japanese curry, chicken pad Thai, beef jerky, egg rolls, vegetarian curry, dragon roll, grilled shrimp, stir-fried vegetables, chicken satay, pork belly, fried tofu, teriyaki chicken, and green papaya salad.
- Serve and enjoy a wonderful meal 🙂