Perfect Steamed White Rice – Fluffy Filipino Rice Side Dish for Everyday Meals

Have you ever contemplated why the Filipino-style steamed white rice served in restaurants is remarkably flavorful? This inquiry arose during my visit to Amber Golden Chain of Restaurants with my father, where I ordered the premium beef combo meal. This package features Beef Morcon, steamed jasmine rice, and Pichi Pichi topped with cheese. I observed that the rice was exceptionally fluffy, with an optimal level of stickiness.

I was intrigued by the preparation methods employed and was fortunate to uncover the secrets behind this beloved Filipino rice side dish. In the following sections, I will outline the process for preparing authentic fluffy steamed rice at home in the traditional Filipino style.

Serving Size	Price
Single order	₱ 22.00

What Makes Steamed White Rice So Famous?

The appeal of steamed white rice in the Philippines lies in its unique taste and enticing aroma. The moment the scent of cooked rice fills the air, it often creates a strong desire to enjoy it alongside your favorite side dishes.

Rice Taste :

Despite being prepared without spices, steamed white rice serves as a versatile accompaniment that enhances the flavors of various dishes. Its fluffy texture and mild taste complement a wide range of Filipino cuisine, including popular options like Pork BBQ, Beef Morcon, and Lechon Kawali. This combination makes rice an essential staple that elevates the overall dining experience.

Aroma and making :

I fondly remember sitting with my grandmother at Amber Restaurant, a cozy spot filled with warmth. As our order arrived, the enticing aroma of steamed rice filled the air, instantly awakening my appetite.

What makes Filipino-style steamed rice so beloved is its exquisite simplicity. With just rice and water, you can create this comforting dish in 18 to 22 minutes. Its versatility allows it to accompany a variety of meals, and the anticipation of serving it hot makes it even more special.

Steamed White Rice Recipe at Home

Key-Ingredients:

Rice – 5 cups
Water – 7 cups

How to make Steamed White Rice (Step-by-Step):

When measuring rice and water, always use the same size cup. For every cup of rice, you need approximately 1.5 cups of water. You can adjust the quantities of rice and water based on the number of people you’re cooking for.
To begin, take a pot and add rice to it. Then, pour in an adequate amount of water, ensuring the water exceeds the quantity of rice. After adding the water, gently swirl the rice with your hands. Subsequently, remove the water. This rinsing process should be repeated two or three times until the water appears clear.
After rinsing the rice with water, add the necessary amount of water for cooking. Place the pot on the stovetop over medium heat. It’s crucial to cook the rice on medium heat; cooking it on high heat can cause it to cook too quickly and burn. Maintaining the right temperature is essential for perfect results.
To cook the rice effectively, begin by setting the heat to medium and allowing it to cook for 12 minutes. Once this initial cooking time has passed, reduce the heat to a medium-low setting. It’s important to stir the rice periodically to prevent it from sticking. Continue cooking for an additional 10 minutes to ensure it is fully prepared.
After an additional 10 minutes of cooking, your rice will be ready to shine. Take a few grains and check them with your fingers; they should break effortlessly when squeezed. Now, serve that perfect steamed rice with lechon kawali, pork BBQ, beef morcon, or any dish you love, and elevate your meal to a celebration.

Steamed White Rice Under 100 Calories (Low-Calorie Option)

For those following a calorie-restricted diet or low-carb lifestyle, you can enjoy a portion of steamed white rice under 100 calories by reducing your serving size to about half a cup (approximately 80–90 grams cooked). Pair it with lean protein like grilled fish or chicken breast and add fiber-rich vegetables for a balanced plate.

Alternatively, health-conscious eaters may opt for low-calorie rice alternatives such as cauliflower rice, konjac rice (shirataki), or brown rice in moderation, which deliver similar satisfaction with a lower glycemic load.

This approach is especially suitable for those managing weight and blood sugar or looking to follow keto-friendly Filipino meals.

Steamed White Rice Calories Per 100g

To support accurate dietary tracking, it’s essential to understand the caloric density of steamed rice per 100 grams. On average:

Calories: 130–140 kcal
Carbohydrates: 29–32 grams
Protein: 2.5–3.5 grams
Fat: Less than 0.5 grams

These values may slightly vary depending on the rice variety used (e.g., Jasmine, Dinorado, or Sinandomeng). This per-100g metric is especially useful for individuals managing their macronutrient goals, such as athletes, diabetics, and those on structured meal plans.

Allergen Info of Steamed White Rice

Steamed White Rice may contain:

– No common allergens; this dish is made solely from plain white rice and water.

Prepared in a kitchen that also handles:

– Dairy

– Eggs

– Peanuts

– Tree Nuts

– Soy

– Shellfish

– Fish

– Sesame

– Gluten

Note: Although steamed white rice does not contain common allergens, there is a possibility of cross-contact due to shared kitchen equipment. If you have severe allergies, please notify the staff before placing your order.

Nutritional Profile of Steamed White Rice

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	207 kcal
Carbohydrates	45 grams
Protein	4.2 grams
Total Fat	0.45 grams
Saturated Fat	0.1 grams
Sugars	0.2 grams
Fiber	0.7 grams
Sodium	1 milligram
Calcium	16 milligrams
Iron	2 milligrams
Magnesium	20 milligrams
Phosphorus	68 milligrams
Potassium	55 milligrams
Thiamine (B1)	0.4 milligrams
Niacin (B3)	2.4 milligrams
Folate	59 micrograms

FAQ’s

In the Philippines, rice is a staple food with several popular varieties. Common types include white rice for everyday meals, malagkit (glutinous rice) for desserts, fragrant jasmine rice, nutrient-rich red rice, aromatic basmati rice, and bomba rice, ideal for dishes like paella. Each variety contributes unique flavors and textures to Filipino cuisine.

Cooking rice generally takes about 15 to 20 minutes. However, the precise duration can vary based on several factors, including the type of rice, the quantity being prepared, and the cooking method you are using.

To determine if your rice is cooked to perfection, try this straightforward method: take a few grains and gently squeeze them between your fingers. If the grains easily break apart with light pressure, it indicates that the rice is ready to be served.

Conclusion

You now have a step-by-step guide to making fluffy Filipino steamed white rice, a simple, comforting staple that completes any meal. Whether you’re cooking at home or dining at Amber Restaurant, this rice offers unmatched versatility, taste, and nutrition. From pairing it with rich dishes like Beef Morcon or Lechon Kawali to adapting it for low-calorie diets, steamed white rice remains a cornerstone of Filipino cuisine.