If you’re the kind of person who loves to get creative in the kitchen, then you’re in for a treat. Mahatma® Rice is here to explore 5 trending ingredients to add to your favorite rice meals. From delightful desserts to savory dishes with fruit, we’re here to help you upgrade your repertoire of recipes with fresh ideas and bold flavors.
New Trends in Cooking
Finding new ways to experiment with flavors and ingredients is what makes cooking such a fun and creative pursuit. A truly global phenomenon, the culinary arts are ever-evolving, meaning there are always new ideas to embrace in your kitchen. These five trending ingredients are great additions to your pantry, and we’ve paired them with enticing recipes for you to try at home.
1. Matcha: A Vibrant Green Tea Powder
Let’s kick things off with an ingredient that has truly taken the world by storm in recent times. Hailing from Japan, matcha is a finely ground powder made from specially grown Japanese green tea leaves, known for its vibrant green color and earthy flavor. When used right, it can add a new dimension to traditional dessert recipes, as this exquisite Matcha Rice Pudding recipe amply demonstrates. This trendy take on an all-time classic is a creamy, mildly sweet dessert made by simmering Mahatma® Basmati Rice in milk with maple syrup and vanilla, then whisking in vibrant matcha powder and topping it with toasted coconut and fresh raspberries for a fragrant, flavorful finish.
2. Turmeric: A Warm and Earthy Spice for Enhancing Flavor
Let’s face it: most of us probably have a small canister of turmeric in our pantries, but does that mean we know when or how to use it? Lovers of Asian cuisine are likely familiar with its distinctive flavor properties, as it is often featured in curry recipes and rice pilafs. However, its popularity has surged of late due to its nutritional properties. A powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound, it also provides small amounts of vitamin B6, iron, potassium, and manganese. If you’re looking for an easy way to add it to your favorite meals, try this Greek Chicken and Turmeric Rice Burrito.
3. Kimchi: Korean-Style Fermented Vegetables
Another ingredient that’s having a moment is kimchi. A traditional Korean fermented dish made primarily from napa cabbage and radishes, and seasoned with chili pepper, garlic, ginger, and salted seafood, it’s known for its spicy, tangy flavor and probiotic properties. Perhaps the secret to its increasing popularity is the fact that it boosts the flavor of dishes in relatively small portions. Try this Bacon and Egg Kimchi Bowl with Mahatma® Brown Rice and find out for yourself how kimchi can transform everyday dishes into something spectacular.
4: Seaweed
Perhaps the most surprising food trend of the last few years has been the rise in popularity of seaweed as an ingredient. A veritable superfood, its nutrient-rich profile and versatility in adding umami flavor to dishes mean it has long been used in sushi recipes such as these Traditional Japanese Temaki Hand Rolls with Mahatma® Sticky Rice. Seaweed snacks are also becoming a popular alternative to breadsticks, as they offer the same crispiness but with added nutritional benefits. Our Kimchi Salmon Fried Rice calls for a side serving of seaweed snacks. Not only do they add to the aesthetic appeal of the dish, but they also bring texture to the overall dining experience.
5. Plantains & Bananas in Savory Dishes
Last but not least, here’s a trend originating in the Caribbean that has been gaining in momentum. Dried or fried plantains and bananas have long been staples of cuisine in this region. They’re a great way to add sweetness to savory dishes, or simply offer a crispy counterpoint to a meal like this Cuban Beef Picadillo with Fried Plantains. Made with hearty and comforting Mahatma® Ready-to-Heat Red Beans & Rice, this 20-minute dish is the perfect dish to try if you’re curious about this unique flavor pairing.
Frequently Asked Questions: Trending Ingredients for Rice Meals
Matcha adds vibrant color, earthy flavor, and a gentle caffeine boost. Not overpowering, it adds fragrance to familiar dishes and makes for a welcome addition to your pantry.
Store fresh turmeric in the fridge wrapped in a paper towel inside an airtight bag for 2–3 weeks, or freeze it for longer storage. Keep turmeric powder in a cool and dry place in an airtight container to preserve its flavor and color.
Most seaweeds, like nori, wakame, or dulse, can be eaten raw, though some varieties are softened or cooked for better texture and digestibility. Cooking is not always necessary, but it can enhance flavor and reduce toughness.
Slice ripe plantains diagonally and fry in medium-hot oil until golden brown and caramelized, turning once. Drain on paper towels before serving to achieve the ideal texture.
Home-Cooked Food with a Trendy Twist
Now that you’ve got plenty of inspiration for new and trendy rice dishes, it’s time to start prepping. For more culinary insight and recipe ideas, make sure to stop by our kitchen and see what’s cooking.