Pork is one of the most popular meats to serve for dinner, and it’s easy to see why. Not only is it delicious, but it also pairs well with many different side dishes. Rice makes an excellent base for a variety of flavors and textures when served alongside pork, so if you’re looking for ideas on what rice side dishes go best with this beloved meat dish, look no further!
From classic fried rice recipes to wild mushroom risotto and everything in between, here are 17 of the best rice side dishes that will pair perfectly with your next pork meal.
1. Fried Rice with Vegetables
We’ll start off with a classic! Fried Rice with Vegetables is a popular accompaniment to pork, often served in Asian cuisine. It pairs perfectly with any type of grilled pork as it helps to balance out the juiciness of the meat and adds a unique flavor profile that complements the pork in all sorts of wonderful ways.
The vegetables add an extra level of crunch and a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals to this already nutritious dish. Not only is fried rice incredibly tasty but it can also be scaled up or down depending on your appetite – making it a great side when entertaining large groups.
Additionally, fried rice can easily be adapted to suit different preferences, so whether you like it spicy or mild, there’s something for everyone!
2. Spanish Rice with Chorizo
This rice dish is a fantastic option if you’re looking to inject your pork meal with some Latin flavor. It pairs beautifully with grilled pork, providing a delicious contrast between the smoky char of the pork and the complex flavors of the Spanish rice.
Spanish Rice with Chorizo is also a hearty side dish, as the chorizo adds protein to give the meal more sustenance. The versions that include bell peppers and tomatoes also provide an extra burst of flavor and color.
3. Cilantro Lime Rice
For a lighter, refreshing accompaniment to pork dishes, try this vibrant cilantro lime rice. It’s incredibly easy to make and is bursting with flavor.
The citrusy tang of the lime juice complements the richness of pork while the cilantro adds a delightful herby note that really brings out the flavor of the meat.
Cilantro lime rice is a great option if you’re looking for something different to serve as it stands out in terms of both flavor and presentation. It’s also vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
4. Garlic Rice
If you’re looking for a simple but tasty side dish to accompany your pork, then Garlic Rice is the perfect option. It only requires a few simple ingredients yet it really packs a punch in terms of flavor.
The combination of butter and garlic adds an incredible depth of flavor that goes perfectly with the mildness of pork. The subtle hint of spice from the garlic also creates a delicious contrast to the succulent nature of the meat.
5. Coconut Rice
For a more tropical accompaniment to your pork dish, Coconut Rice is the answer! This creamy and fragrant rice is infused with the warming flavor of coconut, making it a great partner for pork dishes such as stir-fry or Katsu Curry.
The sweetness of the coconut also helps to cut through the richness of the pork, creating a more balanced flavor profile. Plus, it’s vegan-friendly and gluten-free so it’s suitable for all diets!
6. Wild Rice Pilaf
A wild rice pilaf is a great option if you’re looking for something more substantial. It has a nutty flavor and chewy texture that pairs perfectly with pork dishes such as pork tenderloin or roasted pork belly.
Wild Rice Pilaf is packed with nutrients, making it an incredibly nutritious side dish that will help to round out your meal. It also has a delightful crunch that helps to create a contrast with the tenderness of the pork.
7. Mexican Rice
If you have a fondness for Mexican food, then Mexican Rice is the perfect accompaniment to your pork dish. It has a delicious smoky flavor that comes from the use of chipotle peppers, and the addition of diced red bell pepper provides a nice pop of color.
This rice dish also has a hint of sweetness from the use of tomato purée, which helps to balance out the richness of the pork. It’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.
8. Rice and Beans
Remember this simple dish that our grandmothers used to make us when we were kids? Rice and beans is still a great accompaniment to pork dishes, as the combination of rice and beans provides a good source of protein and fiber.
The flavor of this dish can be customized to suit your preferences, so you can add extra spices or herbs to give it a unique twist. It also makes for a great leftover dish and can be enjoyed the next day.
9. Lemon Rice
Lemon rice makes for a refreshing side dish to pork dishes. The tangy lemon juice adds an extra zing of flavor that helps to cut through the richness of the pork and the crunchy toasted pine nuts provide a delightful textural element.
This dish is also incredibly versatile, as it can easily be adapted to suit your needs. It can be served as a side dish or even used as a base for salads or wraps.
10. Curried Rice
Out of all the rice dishes, curried rice has to be one of the most flavorful! The curry powder adds a warm and earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with pork dishes such as Grilled Pork Chops or Coconut Curry.
The addition of vegetables provides an extra layer of flavor and texture, and the creamy coconut milk helps to tame the spiciness of the curry powder. This is a great dish for those who love bold and flavorsome food.
11. Mango Rice
When it comes to fruity accompaniments, mango rice is the way to go! The sweetness of the mango pairs deliciously with pork dishes, and the addition of fresh ginger and scallions adds a nice kick of flavor.
This dish is also incredibly easy to make, as all you need to do is combine cooked rice, mango, and a few spices. You can experiment with different fruits such as pineapple or papaya to create something unique.
12. Mushroom Risotto
Mushroom risotto is an indulgent side dish that pairs perfectly with pork. The earthy mushrooms complement the sweetness of the pork, and the creamy texture of the risotto provides a nice contrast in texture.
This dish is also incredibly versatile, as you can switch up the type of mushrooms used or add herbs and spices to create something unique. Serve it with a side of crispy kale chips for an extra crunchy element.
13. Cumin Rice
Cumin rice is a popular side dish in Middle Eastern cuisines, and it’s easy to see why! The cumin adds a smoky and earthy flavor that pairs nicely with pork, while the addition of turmeric provides an extra layer of warmth.
This dish is easy to make, and you can also switch up the vegetables used to create something unique. Add some fresh herbs to your dish for extra flavor, and serve it with a side of yogurt to balance out the spiciness.
14. Buttered Herb Rice
Looking for something a little more indulgent? Buttered herb rice is the perfect option! The butter adds richness to the dish while the herbs provide an extra layer of flavor.
This dish can be made with any type of rice you like, and it’s incredibly easy to make. Simply combine cooked rice, butter, and fresh herbs of your choice. Serve it with your favorite pork dish for a delicious meal.
15. Greek Rice Salad
Who said rice has to be served hot? Greek rice salad is the perfect option for those who prefer their side dish cool and refreshing. The combination of feta cheese, olives, and tomatoes provides a burst of flavor that pairs wonderfully with pork.
This is also an incredibly versatile dish, as you can add any vegetables or proteins to create something unique. Serve it with a side of grilled pork chops for a delicious and nutritious meal.
16. Cajun Rice
Cajun rice is the perfect side dish for those who love a bit of heat! The combination of cayenne pepper and other spices adds a nice kick of heat that pairs nicely with pork dishes.
This dish is also incredibly easy to make, as all you need to do is cook the rice with the spices and then combine it with the vegetables of your choice. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs for extra flavor and serve it with pork dishes.
17. Butternut Squash Rice
This is a great way to add some sweetness to your side dish. The combination of butternut squash and rice creates a creamy texture that pairs well with pork dishes.
The sweetness of the butternut squash is balanced out by the addition of spices such as garlic and cumin, while the addition of diced carrots adds a nice crunch. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even add some crumbled feta cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Conclusion
With so many delicious and versatile rice side dishes to choose from, there’s bound to be something on this list that pairs perfectly with your pork dinner. Try one of these recipes the next time you want to add a special touch to your pork meal – you won’t be disappointed!
