Nut-Free White Rice with Toasted Sesame Seeds is a simple yet flavorful side dish that elevates plain rice with the nutty aroma of toasted sesame seeds and the subtle richness of sesame oilβall while being completely nut-free. Perfectly fluffy white rice, rinsed to remove excess starch, is cooked to tender perfection and then topped with golden, fragrant sesame seeds freshly toasted in a skillet. A touch of sesame oil adds depth, making this dish an effortless yet elegant accompaniment to stir-fries, grilled proteins, or vegetable-based meals. Quick to prepare with just 5 minutes of prep time, this recipe caters to those seeking an easy, gluten-free rice side that delivers delightful texture and taste. Ideal for weeknight dinners or as a base for Asian-inspired dishes, it's a versatile option that brings a touch of warmth and crunch to your table.
Rinse the white rice under cold water in a fine mesh sieve until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, water, and salt. Stir once to ensure even seasoning.
Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15 minutes without removing the lid.
After 15 minutes, turn off the heat and let the rice sit covered for an additional 5 minutes to finish steaming.
While the rice is resting, heat a small, dry skillet over medium heat. Add the white sesame seeds and toast them, stirring frequently, for 2-3 minutes until they are light golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
Fluff the cooked rice gently with a fork and transfer it to a serving dish.
Drizzle the toasted sesame oil evenly over the rice and sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds on top.
Serve warm as a side dish or a base for your favorite recipes.
Calories |
403 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 14.2 g | 18% | |
| Saturated Fat | 2.1 g | 11% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 608 mg | 26% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 60.6 g | 22% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.9 g | 10% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.3 g | ||
| Protein | 8.6 g | 17% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 224 mg | 17% | |
| Iron | 3.0 mg | 17% | |
| Potassium | 154 mg | 3% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.