Asian Sesame Scallion Rice

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Sesame Scallion Rice is so incredibly fragrant and delicious, filled with a nutty aroma and flavor. Enjoy a bowl on its own or dish up scallion rice as a side to your favorite Asian recipes. This recipe makes 4 servings in just 30 minutes!

titled: Asian Sesame Rice


 

Sesame Scallion Rice

Asian sesame rice is so incredibly fragrant and delicious. From the moment the jasmine rice comes to a boil, the nutty aroma floods your senses. 

And, it’s only enhanced once you add the toasted sesame oil!

All of this is building up to the pure satisfaction of diving into a bowl of this fabulous sesame scallion rice. You are going to love it!!

Rice is such an affordable staple, and there’s no shortage of ways to add a tasty twist.

For another amazing Asian recipe, try my Copycat PF Chang’s chicken lettuce wraps!

Whether you’re craving Mexican, Chinese, or a creamy dessert, I’ve got a recipe for you!

ingredients for sesame rice recipe

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

  • Jasmine Rice – This has a lightly floral taste compared to plain white rice. Any long-grain variety will work for sesame rice, but basmati is the best substitute.
  • Chicken Stock – I like to use a low-sodium version, though feel free to use what you have. If not low-sodium, you may want to skip the added salt.
  • Toasted Sesame Oil – Meant for drizzling, not cooking! Pay close attention to the color, as it’s not always labeled as “toasted” — it will be a deep amber color.

    A little goes a very long way to add a bold nutty taste and aroma!
  • Scallions – Also known as green onions, combine these with rice and sesame seeds for some color, crunch, and slight peppery flavor.
  • Toasted Sesame Seeds – If you can’t find them already toasted, toss plain seeds into a dry skillet over medium-low heat.

    Move them around frequently until they start to brown and become fragrant.
jasmine rice and chicken stock in a large pot

Tips and Trips to Make Perfect Sesame Rice

  • Use high-quality ingredients.

Especially for the sesame oil and jasmine rice — trust me, it makes a big difference in terms of flavor!

  • Avoid mushy results.

Use the correct ratio of rice to liquid and simmer until all of the liquid has been absorbed.

It can help to let the rice rest (covered) off the heat for a few minutes just be sure.

Then, fluff cooked rice with a fork before adding the other ingredients so every grain is evenly mixed and coated.

  • Take a little extra time to enhance the flavors.

While the rice is cooking, sauté the scallions in a little oil — you can use regular (untoasted) sesame oil or another neutral option, but don’t use the toasted version!

  • Give it a taste before serving!

As with all dishes, have a little taste test before you step away from the stove. You can make adjustments as needed so you don’t have to get up from the table later!

Prep Ahead

  • Rinse and drain rice
  • Chop scallions

Kitchen Tools You Will Need

  • Medium Saucepan – Heats evenly and is easy to clean too.
  • Sieve – Use for draining rinsed rice, pasta, or liquid from canned goods!
  • Quality Knives and a big solid Cutting Board make prepping a breeze and are well worth the investment.
fluffing cooked jasmine rice with a fork

Serving Suggestions

Pair scallion rice with ginger beef stir fry or my crockpot Mongolian beef.

For a vegetarian option, whip up some sweet chili Brussels sprouts and toss in some tofu or a handful of chickpeas for protein.

You can also toss leftover sesame rice into a skillet with scrambled egg, diced meat, or veggies to make a savory scallion fried rice!

I especially like to make a bowl of rice and sesame seeds with saucy teriyaki meatballs on top when I’m craving comfort food with Asian flavors.

adding toasted sesame oil to pot full of cooked rice

Storing and Reheating Scallion Rice

Allow leftovers to cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container.

Refrigerate for 2 to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month — just know the texture may change slightly when thawed.

To reheat, microwave individual portions with a splash of water or broth. You can also warm rice in a skillet on the stove.

Scallion Fried Rice FAQ

How do you cut scallions for fried rice?

With traditional recipes, you’ll find scallions sliced at an angle into long segments — about ½-inch in length.

I prefer smaller pieces in my scallion rice. Just chop them up like you usually would!

Can I use leftover rice to make sesame scallion rice?

Sure! Simply cook the rice ahead of time, then cool and refrigerate for later. Warm on the stovetop before tossing in the rest of the ingredients.

You can also make scallion fried rice with day-old white rice, though the flavor will be slightly different if it was cooked with water instead of stock.

What else can I add to sesame scallion rice?

Minced garlic or ginger are popular additions, while toasted slivered almonds will further enhance the nutty flavor.

Try mixing in some frozen peas and carrots (steamed first), and why not toss some air fried shrimp in while you’re at it?

scallions, sesame seeds and salt added to cooked rice

Enjoy!
With love, from our simple kitchen to yours.

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wooden bowl filled with asian sesame rice with scallions

Other Easy Asian Recipes

closeup of a bowl of scallion rice

Asian Sesame Scallion Rice

Donna Elick
Sesame Scallion Rice is so incredibly fragrant and delicious. With a nutty aroma, this recipe is an easy way to elevate a simple side dish!
5 stars from 1 review
Tried this recipe?Please comment and review!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Main
Cuisine Asian
Method Stovetop
Servings 4

Ingredients
 

  • 1 cup jasmine rice, rinsed and drained
  • 2 1/2 cups low sodium chicken stock
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 4 scallions, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

Instructions
 

  • In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine rice and chicken stock. Bring to a boil, about 5 minutes.
  • Reduce heat to simmer and cover. Cook for 20 minutes or until liquid has been absorbed.
  • Fluff the cooked rice with a fork.
  • Add toasted sesame oil to the rice and toss to coat evenly.
  • Stir in chopped scallions, kosher salt, and toasted sesame seeds.
  • Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 204cal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 0.5g | Sodium: 339mg | Sugar: 1g | Fiber: 1g | Calcium: 33mg | Iron: 1mg

All nutritional information is based on third party calculations and is only an estimate. Each recipe’s nutritional value will vary depending on the ingredients used, measuring methods, and portion sizes.

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Asian Sesame Rice - PIN

Originally published October 2012, updated and republished April 2024

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5 Comments

  1. It's just barely breakfast time and I'm craving some rice now. I adore jasmine rice and can only imagine how much more divine it is with sesame oil drizzled in and scallions on top!

  2. 5 stars
    I love a good jasmine rice recipe and this did not disappoint! Made some orange chicken to go with it and it was amazing!

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