Jasmine Rice

Here we've cooked the rice like pasta—a method that can be applied to any long-grain rice (preferably not converted). As for the fresh herbs, we used lemon thyme and chives, but take advantage of whatever you have on hand.

Cold cooked rice (made at least 1 day ahead) is the secret to delicious fried rice, so don't cook a fresh pot for this recipe.

Active time: 10 min Start to finish: 35 min Cumin and mustard seeds give jasmine rice a subtle Indian flavor. It's a nice change from plain rice; try it as a side dish for grilled steak, fish, or the spiced chicken breast.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. All over Southeast Asia, yellow is associated with gods, royalty and feasts, and any celebration is likely to have a large dish of yellow rice like this at the center of the table.

Using shrimp instead of chicken in this recipe makes for an equally delicious soup.

Active time: 5 min Start to finish: 40 min

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.