25 Best Sauce for White Rice You Have to Try

There are so many different rice recipes out there, and sometimes it can be hard to determine what sauce goes with rice. In this article, we will explore some easy side dishes for every recipe.

Whether you’re looking for something savory or sweet, I have you covered! So read on to learn more about what sauce goes with rice and how to make your meal even more delicious.

Best Sauce for White Rice:

  1. Curry Sauce
  2. Au Jus Rice
  3. Nuoc Cham
  4. Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
  5. Kale Pesto
  6. Chipotle Tahini Sauce
  7. Jalapeno Avocado Sauce
  8. Parsley Pesto
  9. Cilantro Chimichurri
  10. Sichuan Sauce

Curry Sauce

best sauces for rice

One sauce that is often overlooked is curry sauce. While it may not be the most traditional choice, curry sauce can be a great complement to rice. Here are a few reasons why:

  • First, curry sauce is flavorful but not overpowering. This means that it will not overwhelm the taste of the rice itself. Instead, the two flavors will compliment each other nicely.
  • Second, curry sauce is relatively light and not as heavy as some other sauces. This makes it a great option for those who are watching their waistlines or who do not want a heavy meal.
  • Third, curry sauce goes well with a variety of different recipes. For example, it can be used as a dipping sauce for grilled chicken or shrimp. It can also be used in stir-fries or as a topping for baked potatoes. In short, there are many ways to incorporate curry sauce into your mealtime routine.
  • Finally, curry sauce is generally very affordable. This makes it a great budget-friendly option for those who are looking to save money on their food bill.

Quick Recipe: Coconut Curry Sauce with Lemongrass

  • Ingredients: Coconut milk, curry paste, lemongrass, lime leaves, fish sauce
  • Average Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Instructions:
    1. Simmer coconut milk with curry paste.
    2. Add bruised lemongrass stalks and lime leaves.
    3. Finish with a splash of fish sauce.

Au Jus

Au jus is a French sauce made from the natural juices that drip from meat as it cooks. These juices are typically collected and then reduced to create a flavorful and concentrated sauce.

When used as a sauce for white rice, au jus can add a boost of flavor to any dish. Additionally, its rich and savory taste pairs well with many different ingredients, making it a versatile option for spicing up any meal.

While au jus is commonly associated with beef, it can also be made with other meats such as pork or lamb.

Quick Recipe: Simple Au Jus Sauce

  • Ingredients: 4 cups beef broth, 1 onion, sliced, 1 clove garlic, chopped, A pinch of thyme (dried or fresh)
  • Average Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Instructions:
  1. Cook Onion and Garlic: In a pot, add the sliced onion and chopped garlic. Cook them for a few minutes until they soften.
  2. Add Thyme: Put a pinch of thyme into the pot.
  3. Pour in Broth: Add the beef broth and let it heat up until it starts to simmer.
  4. Simmer: Keep it on low heat for about 15 minutes.
  5. Strain: Use a strainer to remove the onion, garlic, and thyme. You’ll be left with a clear liquid.
  6. Serve: Pour the hot sauce over your meat and enjoy!

 

Nuoc Cham

sauce for rice

When it comes to finding the perfect sauce for your white rice dish, you may want to consider nuoc cham.

This light, savory sauce is made from a variety of ingredients, including fish sauce, garlic, chili peppers, and lime juice. While it is often used as a dipping sauce for spring rolls or fresh vegetables, it can also be used as a cooking ingredient or condiment.

When adding nuoc cham to your rice dish, you will find that it adds a depth of flavor that is both savory and slightly sweet. It is also an excellent way to add a bit of heat to your dish without overwhelming the other flavors.

Quick Recipe: Nuoc Cham with Ginger and Sesame

  • Ingredients: Fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, ginger, sesame oil
  • Average Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Instructions:
    1. Mix fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar.
    2. Add grated ginger and a drop of sesame oil.

Roasted Red Pepper Sauce

Roasted Red Pepper Sauce is a versatile and flavorful sauce that can be used in a variety of recipes. One great way to use it is as a sauce for the rice.

This sauce is packed with nutrients and antioxidants, and it has a rich, smokey flavor that pairs well with rice. Additionally, the sauce can help to boost the nutritional value of your meal.

Rice is a staple food in many cultures, and it is often consumed as a side dish. However, by adding roasted red pepper sauce to your rice, you can turn it into a nutritious and satisfying main course. The sauce is also suitable for Vegans and Vegetarians.

Quick Recipe: Roasted Red Pepper Sauce with Almonds

  • Ingredients: Roasted red peppers, almonds, garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika
  • Average Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Instructions:
    1. Blend roasted red peppers with almonds and garlic.
    2. Drizzle in olive oil and add smoked paprika.

Kale Pesto

sauces for rice

Kale Pesto is a versatile and flavorful sauce that can be used in a variety of recipes. While it is commonly used as a pasta sauce, it can also be used as a white rice sauce.

When used as a rice sauce, kale pesto can add a boost of flavor and nutrition to your meal. Kale pesto is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. In addition, kale pesto is a great source of plant-based protein.

Using kale pesto as a white rice sauce is a quick and easy way to upgrade your meal. Simply cook your rice according to package instructions and then stir in the kale pesto.

You can also use kale pesto as a dipping sauce or spread for wraps and sandwiches. For a more traditional pasta sauce, simply add some cooked chicken or shrimp to the kale pesto.

Quick Recipe: Kale Pesto with Walnuts and Pecorino

  • Ingredients: Kale, walnuts, garlic, olive oil, Pecorino cheese
  • Average Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Instructions:
    1. Blend kale, walnuts, and garlic.
    2. Drizzle in olive oil and add grated Pecorino.

Chipotle Tahini Sauce

best sauce for rice

Chipotle Tahini Sauce is a versatile and flavorful sauce that can be used on a variety of foods. When used as a sauce for white rice, it can add a touch of spice and flavor to the dish.

The benefits of using Chipotle Tahini Sauce as a sauce for rice include the fact that it is low in fat and calories, and it is also a good source of protein and fiber. Additionally, this sauce is gluten-free and vegan, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

When selecting a recipe to pair with Chipotle Tahini Sauce, it is important to consider the other flavors in the dish. For example, if the dish is already very spicy, you may want to tone down the spice level by using less of the sauce. On the other hand, if the dish is bland, you may want to use more of the sauce to add flavor.

Quick Recipe: Chipotle Tahini Sauce with Cilantro

  • Ingredients: Tahini, chipotle peppers, lime juice, cilantro, garlic
  • Average Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Instructions:
    1. Blend tahini with chipotle peppers and garlic.
    2. Add lime juice and cilantro.

Jalapeno Avocado Sauce

Jalapeno avocado sauce is a fantastic way to spice up your rice. This delicious and nutritious sauce can be used as a dipping sauce, a cooking sauce, or even as a salad dressing.

And, it’s easy to make! Simply combine avocado, jalapeno pepper, lime juice, and salt in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. For a healthier jalapeno avocado sauce, use low-fat yogurt or sour cream in place of the lime juice.

If you want a spicier sauce, add more jalapeno pepper or use hotter peppers such as serrano or habanero. You can also adjust the level of heat by removing the seeds and ribs from the peppers.

Jalapeno avocado sauce is a great way to add flavor and nutrition to your white rice. It’s also perfect for those who are on a low-carb diet or are avoiding nightshades.

Quick Recipe: Jalapeño Avocado Sauce with Lime and Honey

  • Ingredients: Avocado, jalapeño, lime juice, honey, garlic
  • Average Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Instructions:
    1. Blend avocado with jalapeño and garlic.
    2. Add lime juice and a touch of honey.

Parsley Pesto

One common way to use parsley pesto is as a sauce for white rice. This can be a great way to add some flavor to your rice without having to use a lot of ingredients. Parsley pesto is also a healthy option because it is low in calories and fat.

Additionally, pesto is high in antioxidants and vitamins A and C. To make this dish, simply cook your rice according to the package directions. Once the rice is cooked, stir in a few spoonfuls of pesto until it is evenly distributed. You can also add other ingredients to the rice such as vegetables or chicken.

If you are looking for a more flavorful dish, you can try using pesto as a marinade for chicken or fish. Simply coat the chicken or fish in pesto and then grill or bake it. Pesto can also be used as spread on sandwiches or used as a dipping sauce for bread or vegetables. You can even add it to soups or pasta dishes for an extra boost of flavor.

Quick Recipe: Parsley Pesto with Capers and Lemon Zest

  • Ingredients: Parsley, capers, garlic, olive oil, lemon zest
  • Average Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Instructions:
    1. Blend parsley, capers, and garlic.
    2. Drizzle in olive oil and add lemon zest.

Cilantro Chimichurri

Cilantro Chimichurri is a flavorful, fresh sauce that is perfect for spicing up any dish. This zesty sauce is traditionally made with cilantro, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, and chili peppers, and it can be used as a marinade, a dipping sauce, or a topping for rice. Cilantro Chimichurri is packed with antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties, making it not only delicious but also good for you.

When used as a sauce for rice, Cilantro Chimichurri adds a boost of flavor and a touch of heat that takes the dish to the next level. This versatile sauce can also be used on chicken, fish, or vegetables.

Quick Recipe: Cilantro Chimichurri with Red Wine Vinegar

  • Ingredients: Cilantro, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, red pepper flakes
  • Average Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Instructions:
    1. Chop cilantro and garlic finely.
    2. Mix with red wine vinegar, olive oil, and red pepper flakes.

Sichuan Sauce

Sichuan sauce is a common Chinese condiment and seasoning used in a variety of different dishes. It is made from a combination of chili peppers, vinegar, ginger, and other spices.

The sauce is often used as a dipping sauce for white rice, noodles, and meat dishes. It can also be added to soups and stir-fries. Sichuan sauce is a popular choice for those who enjoy spicy food. The sauce is also beneficial in that it can help to promote digestion and improve circulation.

When choosing a Sichuan sauce, it is important to select one that is made with fresh ingredients and does not contain preservatives. There are many different brands of Sichuan sauce available on the market, so it is important to experiment until you find one that you enjoy.

Quick Recipe: Sichuan Sauce with Peanuts and Szechuan Peppercorns

  • Ingredients: Soy sauce, sesame oil, Szechuan peppercorns, garlic, peanuts
  • Average Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Instructions:
    1. Toast Szechuan peppercorns and grind.
    2. Mix with soy sauce, sesame oil, and minced garlic.
    3. Stir in chopped peanuts.

Commonly Asked Questions When Choosing What Sauce Goes With Rice

What are other options when choosing what sauce goes with rice?

  1. Green Mole Sauce
  2. Tahini Sauce
  3. Caribbean Hot Sauce
  4. Soy Sauce
  5. Prawn Sauce
  6. Hoisin Sauce
  7. Ginger Sauce
  8. Peanut Sauce
  9. Sriracha Sauce
  10. Oyster Sauce
  11. Asian Barbecue Sauce
  12. General Tso’s Sauce
  13. Chinese White Sauce
  14. Peanut Sauce
  15. Ginger Sauce

What are some tips when choosing what sauce goes with rice?

When choosing what sauce goes with rice, it is important to consider the flavors that you want to add to the dish. It is also important to think about what other ingredients will be in the dish and how they will work together.

For example, if you are making a stir-fry, you may want to choose a sauce that has a bold flavor that can stand up to the other ingredients. If you are making a rice dish that is lighter in flavor, you may want to choose a more delicate sauce.

You should also consider the texture of the sauce when choosing what goes with rice. For example, a thick sauce may not be ideal for a light and fluffy rice dish while a thin sauce may be better suited for a rice dish that has a lot of other ingredients.

Conclusion

When choosing what sauce goes with rice, it is important to experiment and find what you like. There are many different options available, so don’t be afraid to try something new. With a little experimentation, you can find the perfect sauce for your next rice dish.

25 Best Sauce for White Rice You Have to Try

Discover 25 delectable side options to spice up your meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 390 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • Curry Sauce
  • Au Jus Rice
  • Nuoc Cham
  • Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
  • Kale Pesto
  • Chipotle Tahini Sauce
  • Jalapeno Avocado Sauce
  • Parsley Pesto
  • Cilantro Chimichurri
  • Sichuan Sauce

Instructions
 

  • Choose your preferred recipe
  • Prepare the ingredients needed to complete the recipe
  • Prepare your side dish
Keyword what to serve with white rice