Rice, originally from Southeast Asia, is a staple food in the Philippines and many parts of the world. It grows from branching stems ending in panicles that produce grains. However, due to the increasing costs of rice production, the Philippine government is encouraging the cultivation of alternative crops.
To support farmers in this transition, experts from the Department of Agriculture – Agricultural Training Institute (DA-ATI) have developed various rice-based livelihood recipes. These recipes have been carefully researched and perfected, offering new and creative ways to enjoy rice while also creating income opportunities for home-based entrepreneurs.
Here are some delicious and innovative rice recipes that you can try at home and even turn into a small business!
RICE STEW IN TOMATO SAUCE (CALDERETA RICE)
A creative twist on the Filipino Kaldereta, this rice dish replaces goat meat with rice as the star ingredient while keeping the rich tomato-based sauce and flavorful seasonings of the original Spanish-influenced dish.
Ingredients:
2 cups long-grain rice
2 teaspoons oil
2 sachets food seasoning
½ cup tomato ketchup
½ cup ground liver or liver spread
2 teaspoons brown sugar
½ cup carrots, cubed
⅓ cup garbanzos (pre-cooked)
⅓ cup corn kernels (pre-cooked)
2-3 cups water
Instructions:
1️⃣ Soak rice in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Heat oil in a pan and sauté the rice. Add food seasoning and cook for 3 more minutes.
3️⃣ Stir in the remaining ingredients and pour in water.
4️⃣ Simmer over low heat for 1 hour and 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
5️⃣ Once the rice is fully cooked, transfer to a serving plate and enjoy!
EASY CHEESY RICE PIE
A fusion of Italian and Filipino cuisine, this dish combines the creaminess of Italian rice pie with the soft, fluffy texture of Filipino puto for a delightful treat!
Ingredients:
2 cups freshly cooked rice
½ cup grated cheese
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
½ cup sour cream (substitute: mix ½ cup all-purpose cream with 2 teaspoons vinegar)
¼ cup bacon, cubed
Instructions:
1️⃣ In a hot pan, combine rice, cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until the cheese melts.
2️⃣ Shape the mixture into a large, round pie. Spread sour cream on top.
3️⃣ Garnish with bacon bits and serve warm.
SINUKMANI (BATANGAS-STYLE GLUTINOUS RICE CAKE)
A local specialty from Batangas, Sinukmani is a sticky rice dessert similar to biko, sweetened with coconut milk and sugar. This version features a unique green tint for an added visual appeal.
Ingredients:
2 kg glutinous rice
2 whole coconuts, grated
1 kg white sugar
5 drops green food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1️⃣ Cook the glutinous rice using a 1:1 water ratio (1 cup water per 1 cup rice).
2️⃣ Extract coconut milk from the grated coconut.
3️⃣ Mix the coconut milk with the cooked rice, then add sugar.
4️⃣ Cook over low heat, stirring continuously, until it reaches a sticky consistency.
5️⃣ Let cool before serving. Enjoy!
RICE MAJA BLANCA
A delicious rice-based version of the classic Filipino Maja Blanca, perfect for summer merienda or a small food business!
Ingredients:
1 kg glutinous rice
1 kg regular rice
1¼ kg white sugar
1 large can evaporated milk
4 medium coconuts, grated
¼ kg whole peanuts
Instructions:
1️⃣ Wash and soak both types of rice for 4 hours, then grind.
2️⃣ Steam the ground rice with evaporated milk, sugar, and food coloring.
3️⃣ For toppings:
- Toast peanuts over low heat until crispy. Remove shells and pound lightly.
- In a pan, cook grated coconut with sugar until golden brown. Mix in the crushed peanuts.
4️⃣ Spread the topping mixture over the maja blanca and let it cool before slicing. Serve and enjoy!
RICE: NUTRITIONAL VALUE & HEALTH BENEFITS
Rice is not just a staple food; it also provides essential nutrients for a balanced diet.
Good Source of: Magnesium
Contains: Niacin, Vitamin B6, Thiamine, Phosphorus, Zinc, Copper
Traces of: Pantothenic Acid, Potassium, Thiamine (except in brown rice)
Different rice types have unique nutritional benefits:
Parboiled Long-Grain White Rice – Higher in niacin, magnesium, copper, and pantothenic acid
Regular Long-Grain White Rice – Contains pantothenic acid, Vitamin B6, magnesium, and zinc
Health Benefits of Rice:
Easily digestible starch – Gentle on the stomach
Astringent properties – Helps manage diarrhea and hypertension
Low in protein – Suitable for individuals with kidney concerns
TIP: The cooking water from rice is traditionally used as a natural remedy for digestive issues.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Rice is more than just a side dish—it’s an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be used in savory meals, desserts, and even small business ventures. Whether you’re looking for a new way to enjoy rice at home or thinking of starting a rice-based food business, these recipes are a great way to start!
Try them out and share your experience! Who knows? Your next big business idea could be one rice dish away!
