Sesame Brown Rice
Creamy sesame brown rice combines nutty flavors with a savory tahini and tamari sauce, creating a comforting dish perfect for those who enjoy plant-based, wholesome meals. Its rich texture and bold flavors make it a versatile side or main, suitable for lunch or dinner any day of the week.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place 1 1/2 cups water in a saucepan, bring to a boil, add a pinch of salt and the brown rice.
- Bring to a boil again, then cover and reduce heat to cook rice for approximately 50 minutes.
- When rice is done, combine tahini, tamari sauce, and water in a small saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for five minutes.
- Add water as needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
- Combine the cooked rice with the sesame sauce and serve while hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nuttier flavor, consider toasting the brown rice in the saucepan before adding water. If you don't have tahini, you can substitute it with almond butter or sunflower seed butter. To enhance the dish, adding a splash of rice vinegar can brighten the flavors. Experiment with different types of tamari sauce for varying saltiness and depth, especially if you enjoy Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sesame brown rice as a main dish or as a side to grilled vegetables or tofu. It pairs beautifully with Fried Eggplant or a fresh Caesar Salad (For Two). For added texture, consider garnishing with sesame seeds or chopped green onions. This dish makes a wonderful base for a grain bowl with your favorite toppings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water and microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little water to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sesame Brown Rice contains roughly 67 calories, with 4g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?
Yes, you can use white rice, but the cooking time will be shorter, about 15-20 minutes. Additionally, white rice will have a different texture and flavor, so adjust your expectations accordingly. Keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add a kick, you can incorporate chili flakes or sriracha into the sesame sauce. Alternatively, mix in some chopped fresh chili or a dash of hot sauce when combining the rice and sauce. This will enhance the dish while complementing the nuttiness of the tahini.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! The sesame brown rice is perfect for meal prep. It holds up well in the fridge and can be easily reheated throughout the week. Consider packing it with steamed vegetables or proteins for a balanced meal, making it a great option for busy days.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).