There are some ingredients that pair so well together, it’s as if they were made for one another! Among such matches in culinary heaven, you’ll find fish and rice. This flavors-of-the-sea and grains-from-the-land combo has gained popularity across the world because of the way these ingredients complement each other in recipes. However, knowing what kinds of fish to pair with which grain is what separates the top chefs from the rest! Read on as we take a deeper look at types of rice varieties that you combine with fish for an elevated meal!
Pairing Shrimp with Grains
Cooking shrimp gives us opportunities for grilling, sautéing and stir-frying. This means elegant dishes with flavors and colors to please the crowd. But what are the grain options for shrimp recipes? Let’s take a look.
Rice: Shrimp and rice is a classic combo, popular in various different forms and in many types of cuisine. The sweet flavors in the shrimp are a delight to eat alongside the more neutral-tasting rice.
This combo gives you plenty of options from Asian-inspired dishes such as this Shrimp Salad with Bangkok Rice Recipe, to dishes that are completely different such as this Spanish-inspired Easy Paella Recipe.
Jerk Shrimp Quinoa Bowl
Quinoa: Using quinoa instead of rice to accompany your shrimp is a trendy way to bring an original twist to meal time. Quinoa has been growing in popularity across North America over the last few years having been consumed in parts of South America for centuries.
With its slightly nutty flavor, it brings a hearty addition to recipes that can be easily enhanced by a touch of zest citrus dressing or adding some spice blends. It works wonders in fusion dishes such as this delicious Jerk Shrimp Quinoa Bowl With Thai Slaw Recipe.
Orzo: Another way to make a shrimp dish look, feel and taste unique is by swapping out the rice for orzo. Although its shape and size is similar to that of rice grains, orzo is actually a miniscule pasta that brings a tender and chewy texture to the plate.
Popular in Mediterranean cuisine, try it with some sprinkles of lemon juice, olive oil and fresh herbs in dishes like this Garlic Shrimp Orzo Recipe.
Halibut vs. Cod – Key Differences
Halibut vs. Cod – Key Differences
Although similar, halibut and cod are both types of white fish that have their own unique characteristics. Top chefs know the differences between the two. Here’s how you can tell:
- Halibut is normally larger than cod.
- Halibut’s texture is firmer and more dense.
- Both have a mild flavor, but halibut is a little sweeter.
- Cod is slightly more oily.
So what dishes do they work best with?
Halibut:
- Due to its firmer texture, halibut is great for frying and pan-searing
- Its mild flavor and texture also make it ideal for roasting or baking.
- That firmness means it can be poached or steamed, retaining moisture and flavor.
Cod:
- As a soft fish, cod is delicious when fried, giving it a crispy coating but soft middle.
- With its flaky texture, baking or broiling cod brings out its tenderness.
- You can even add it to soups and stews for a soft but tasty touch.
Now it’s time to put your white fish and rice cooking skills to the test. You can do exactly that by preparing this Toyomansi Glazed Cod with Coconut Garlic Jasmati® Rice Recipe. When this rich FIlipino condiment enhances the flavor of the cod, and the rice is tinged with coconut and garlic, the result is mouthwatering.
Alternatively, try out your halibut prep skills while bringing some wine into the kitchen to jazz up the overall taste of this elegant Wine-Poached Halibut with Celery Root Puree Recipe.
Aside from tasting great, this dish is truly stylish!
Mixing Seafood with Risotto
There are various kinds of seafood that can complement a risotto dish. Bringing the flavors of the ocean to something classic and Italian-inspired can give your dishes a contrast of tastes and textures as well as an air of originality.
Why not try your hand at preparing this Seafood Risotto Recipe. This dish will allow your guests to indulge in classic Mediterranean flavors with seafood sensations for a truly satisfying experience.
Another risotto variation with an impressive appearance and rich taste is this Seared Scallop Duxelle Parmesan Risotto. It’s elegant presentation, garnished with chopped thyme, makes it ideal for an evening meal for two.
Here are some more fantastic risotto with seafood options:
Fish and Pearl Couscous Combinations
The fact that Pearl Couscous is light and fluffy while many types of fish have a moist and flaky texture makes this combo highly satisfying! Here are a couple of elegant options you can add to your culinary repertoire.
With aromatic spices and a colorful appearance, this Moroccan Sea Bass and Tri-Color Pearl Couscous makes an ideal dish to serve on a quiet night in, or for a special occasion. It also gives home chefs the chance to bring some international ingredients to the plate.
For a light and flavorful yet highly satisfying dish, which makes for a delicious accompaniment to a summer evening, try this Shrimp Scampi with Pearl Couscous Recipe. With garlic, shrimp, lemon juice, butter and herbs, this refreshing meal is simply irresistible.
For more tips, tricks and recipe ideas to inspire your next culinary creation, be sure to stay tuned to our blog. Here you’ll find new and innovative ways to take your cooking to the next level!