Lemongrass Rice is a beautifully fragrant and citrusy side dish commonly found in Asian cuisines, especially Thai, Vietnamese, and Indonesian cooking. This aromatic rice is infused with the bright, slightly sweet flavor of fresh lemongrass and warm cardamom, creating a light yet flavorful accompaniment to rich mains.
What Is Lemongrass Rice?
Lemongrass rice is plain white rice cooked with fresh lemongrass stalks and aromatic spices. As the rice simmers, it absorbs the essential oils from the lemongrass, giving it a subtle lemony fragrance without sourness.
Unlike lemon rice, lemongrass rice is mild, balanced, and soothing, making it suitable for both spicy and mild dishes.
Why You Will Love This Lemongrass Rice Recipe
Light, fluffy, and perfectly cooked every time
Naturally aromatic with citrusy notes
Easy to prepare using simple pantry ingredients
Pairs well with a wide variety of dishes
Can be customized with coconut milk or extra aromatics
Cultural Significance of Lemongrass Rice
Lemongrass rice is a staple side dish in many Asian cultures. In Thailand, it is usually served with grilled meats or seafood, while in Vietnam, it is a popular accompaniment to noodle dishes. In Indonesia, lemongrass rice is served with fried chicken or beef. The citrusy flavour of lemongrass complements the rich flavours of these dishes, making it a versatile side dish.
Making Delicious Lemongrass Rice Recipe
To make this dish, you will need:
Ingredients
2 cups uncooked white jasmine rice, rinsed
3 cups water
2 stalks lemongrass, roughly chopped
7 cardamom pods
2 tbsp butter
1 tablespoon vegetable oil/coconut oil
Salt to taste
Instructions
Using a pestle & mortar, crush the cardamon and lemongrass and place it into a pot
Add water and gently bring to a boil
Add the oil, butter and salt, followed by the rinsed rice
Add rice and bring to a gentle boil, then cover and shift the heat to the lowest setting
Simmer until rice is cooked and fluffy.
Once done, remove the cardamon and lemongrass pieces, then fluff the rice using a fork
Serve and enjoy!
Lemongrass Rice Recipe
A flavourful, aromatic, citrusy, easy-to-make side dish recipe that infuses fluffy rice with the bright and refreshing flavour of lemongrass, creating a perfect accompaniment to various dishes.
Lemongrass is more than just aromatic it’s also nutritious:
Rich in vitamins A and C
Contains potassium and magnesium
Known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties
Traditionally used to support digestion and immunity
It’s also commonly brewed into tea and enjoyed with snacks like East African mandazi.
Tips and Variations
Use fresh lemongrass for the best flavour.
Adjust the amount of lemongrass to your taste.
Add other aromatics like onion or ginger for added flavour.
Use coconut milk for creamier rice.
Serve with grilled meats, seafood, or noodle dishes.
Pro Tips for Perfect Lemongrass Rice
Use fresh lemongrass for the best aroma
Rinse rice thoroughly to prevent stickiness
Do not over-stir once the rice starts cooking
Let rice rest for 5 minutes before fluffing
Lemongrass Rice Variations
Coconut Lemongrass Rice
Replace half the water with coconut milk for a creamy, rich version.
Ginger Lemongrass Rice
Add a few slices of fresh ginger for extra warmth.
Onion Infused Rice
Sauté thinly sliced onion in oil before adding water and aromatics.
Vegan Version
Skip butter and use coconut oil only.
What to Serve with Lemongrass Rice
This rice pairs beautifully with:
Thai chicken meatballs
Pineapple chicken curry
Grilled shrimp or fish
Fried chicken or beef
Spicy noodle dishes
It also works well as a light base for rice bowls.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Reheating Add a splash of water and steam or microwave until warm
Freezing Not recommended, as the texture may change
Final Thought
Lemongrass rice proves that a side dish does not need a long ingredient list to feel special. With just a few pantry staples and a couple of fresh lemongrass stalks, you get a fragrant, restaurant worthy rice that turns any weeknight meal into something a little more memorable. Once you have made it, you will find yourself reaching for this one again and again alongside curries, grilled meats and seafood.
Lemongrass rice has a light, citrusy, and slightly sweet flavor with a fragrant aroma. It is not sour like lemon rice and pairs well with both mild and spicy dishes.
Can I use dried lemongrass instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh lemongrass is strongly recommended for the best aroma and flavor. If using dried lemongrass, reduce the quantity and strain it out before serving, as it has a more concentrated taste.
Which rice is best for lemongrass rice?
Jasmine rice is the best choice because of its naturally floral aroma and soft, fluffy texture. Basmati rice can also be used, but the flavor will be slightly different.
Can I make lemongrass rice with coconut milk?
Yes. Replace half of the water with coconut milk to make coconut lemongrass rice. This version is richer and pairs beautifully with spicy curries and grilled meats.
Is lemongrass rice healthy?
Yes. Lemongrass rice is a light and nutritious side dish. Lemongrass contains antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and minerals that support digestion and immunity.
Can lemongrass rice be made vegan?
Absolutely. Replace butter with coconut oil or vegetable oil, and the dish becomes completely vegan.
How do I prevent lemongrass rice from becoming mushy?
Rinse the rice thoroughly, use the correct water ratio, and avoid stirring once the rice starts simmering. Let it rest for 5 minutes before fluffing.
About Devine Dishes
A lifelong love of cooking, one delicious recipe at a time.
Welcome to Devine Dishes! I'm so glad you're here.
I'm the cook, recipe creator, and food lover behind this little corner of the internet. Born and raised in Kenya, my love for cooking started when I was very young. Even as a child, I would happily volunteer to cook for the family, leaving the dishes and laundry for my siblings. Looking back, I think I had already discovered my passion and a clever way to avoid some chores! 😜
Where My Love for Cooking Began
In high school, I chose Home Science and quickly discovered that baking was something I truly enjoyed. I went on to win awards in provincial school baking competitions for three consecutive years. Those were incredibly proud moments for me, and I loved the feeling of creating something delicious with my own hands.
But not everyone saw cooking the way I did.
I still remember the day my chemistry teacher laughed out loud in class after I received one of my baking medals. He told me I was wasting my time with cooking and that I should focus on the sciences, which would give me a better future than cookies and cakes.
It was an embarrassing moment, especially as a student who was proud of something she had worked hard to achieve. But I didn't stop cooking.
That experience stayed with me, not because it changed my passion, but because it reminded me that sometimes you have to believe in yourself even when others don't understand your dreams.
From Cooking for Family to Building a Food Business
Over the years, my love for cooking has taken me on quite a journey.
I've explored different food business ideas, from cooking and selling chapatis and mandazis to catering, meal preparation, and delivery. Each experience taught me something new about food, business, and the joy of sharing a good meal with others.
Today, I'm excited to bring that passion to food blogging.
Devine Dishes is a place where I share the recipes I love, the ones I'm learning, and the ones I can't wait for you to try. You'll find African and Kenyan favorites, comforting family meals, delicious baking recipes, and practical dishes that make cooking at home enjoyable.
My goal is simple: to help you discover recipes that are delicious, approachable, and worth making again.
More Than Just Recipes
For me, food has always been about more than feeding people. It's about family, memories, creativity, and bringing people together.
When I'm not working, you'll often find me trying out new recipes, creating and editing content, or spending time with family. Sometimes we're swimming, watching TV, or simply chatting over a good meal. Those ordinary moments are some of my favorite moments.
I also love traveling and discovering new places, cultures, and foods. I'm hoping to do much more of it in the near future, and I'm excited about the inspiration those experiences will bring to my cooking and future recipes.
Thank You for Being Here
Whether you're visiting Devine Dishes for a Kenyan recipe, looking for something delicious to bake, or simply exploring new meals to try, thank you for being part of this journey.
Every recipe shared here is a little piece of my love for cooking, my experiences, and the belief that it's never too late to pursue something you're passionate about.
I hope you find something delicious, make wonderful memories around your table, and come back often.
Happy cooking!
With love,
Milli
The heart behind Devine Dishes
This Thai-Style Lemongrass Rice recipe from Devine Dishes is an absolute winner for anyone who loves aromatic, flavourful side dishes! The combination of fresh lemongrass and cardamom infused into fluffy jasmine rice creates a beautifully fragrant and citrusy dish that feels restaurant-quality yet is incredibly simple to make at home. Ready in just 25 minutes with minimal ingredients, it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, curries, and seafood. The pro tips on rinsing rice, avoiding over-stirring, and the coconut milk variation are especially helpful for getting perfect results every time. A must-try recipe that will instantly elevate any meal!
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This Thai-Style Lemongrass Rice recipe from Devine Dishes is an absolute winner for anyone who loves aromatic, flavourful side dishes! The combination of fresh lemongrass and cardamom infused into fluffy jasmine rice creates a beautifully fragrant and citrusy dish that feels restaurant-quality yet is incredibly simple to make at home. Ready in just 25 minutes with minimal ingredients, it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, curries, and seafood. The pro tips on rinsing rice, avoiding over-stirring, and the coconut milk variation are especially helpful for getting perfect results every time. A must-try recipe that will instantly elevate any meal!