20 Rice Toppings: Delicious Ways to Top Your Rice

Staring at a bowl of plain steamed rice and feeling uninspired? Let’s fix that in the tastiest way possible. With the right toppings, rice jumps from background filler to the star of the plate and gives you endless room to riff on flavor, texture, and global flair.

Best rice toppings ON YouTube

Ready to dive into flavor? This directory rounds up twenty crave‑worthy videos that turn humble grains into show‑stopping bowls. Whether you crave Savory Rice Cake Recipes, crave lighter Rice Cakes Healthy twists, or need lightning‑fast Menu Sarapan Sehat inspo, these creators show you how to load up Rice Cake Topping Ideas without breaking the bank or your schedule.

20 Delicious Rice Toppings That Will Transform Your Meals

Are you staring at that plain bowl of rice wondering how to jazz it up? We’ve all been there – that moment when your rice looks sad and lonely on the plate. But don’t worry! I’ve got your back with these game-changing rice toppings that’ll take your humble grain from boring to brilliant. Whether you’re looking for quick lunch ideas, healthy snack options, or ways to spice up your dinner routine, these toppings work beautifully on everything from fluffy steamed rice to crispy rice cakes. Ready to transform that plain canvas into something spectacular?

1. Soft-Boiled Egg + Soy Sauce Drizzle

Is there anything more satisfying than breaking open a perfectly jammy egg yolk over a steaming bowl of rice? This combo is a breakfast staple across Asia for good reason – it’s simple but absolutely divine! The trick is getting that egg just right – about 6.5 minutes in boiling water gives you that dreamy consistency where the yolk slowly oozes over your rice.

The soy sauce adds that punch of umami that ties everything together, turning plain rice into a crave-worthy meal. I literally make this at least twice a week when I’m in a rush, and it never disappoints! It works brilliantly whether you’re loading up rice bowls or spreading on rice cakes. Pro tip: add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for extra texture and flavor!

2. Smashed Avocado + Furikake

Okay, I know what you’re thinking – avocado toast is so 2015. But have you tried avocado on RICE with furikake? Game-changer! This fusion creation gives you the creaminess of avocado against the subtle crunch of rice (especially nice with rice cakes), while furikake – that magical Japanese seasoning blend – adds incredible depth with minimal effort. It’s packed with good fats and makes for such a satisfying healthy breakfast or light lunch.

I discovered this combo when I ran out of bread one morning and was desperate for my avo fix – now it’s in regular rotation! The best part? It satisfies both Western and Asian flavor cravings in one go. Just mash your avocado with a squeeze of lime, spread it over warm rice, and sprinkle generously with furikake. Your Instagram feed will thank you!

3. Spicy Tuna Mayo

Remember those spicy tuna rolls you order at your favorite sushi spot? This topping brings those same flavors right to your kitchen! All you need is a can of tuna (drained well), mayo, sriracha, and a splash of soy sauce. Mix it all together, adjusting the heat level to your preference, and you’ve got a protein-packed topping that’s ready in minutes.

I love how versatile this one is – serve it warm over freshly cooked rice, or cold on rice cakes for an easy lunch. When I’m feeling fancy, I’ll add some finely chopped green onions and cucumber for freshness and crunch. The creamy-spicy combo is absolutely addictive, and it’s saved me countless times when I’m staring into my fridge wondering what to make. Bonus: it uses pantry staples you probably already have on hand!

4. Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Slices

Can we just take a moment to appreciate how stupidly good teriyaki chicken is on rice? There’s something magical about those thin slices of chicken coated in that sweet-savory glaze soaking into warm, fluffy rice. Heaven! The key is marinating your chicken for at least 30 minutes (overnight if you’re organized, which I rarely am), then grilling or pan-frying until you get those delicious caramelized edges.

Slice it super thin against the grain and layer it over your rice – the thinner slices mean more surface area for that glorious sauce to coat! This is my go-to when I’m meal prepping because it reheats beautifully and tastes amazing cold too. Pair it with some thinly sliced cucumber or steamed edamame for a complete meal that’ll make your coworkers jealous during lunch break. Trust me, this one’s a crowd-pleaser!

5. Kimchi + Fried Egg

Let’s talk about a combination that hits ALL the satisfaction buttons: spicy, tangy kimchi paired with a perfectly fried egg atop a bowl of rice. Have you tried this yet? Because if not, you’re seriously missing out! The runny yolk creates this amazing sauce that cools down the kimchi’s kick while the fermented cabbage adds this incredible depth and crunch.

It’s my ultimate “I need food NOW” meal because it takes literally five minutes to make but tastes like it came from a Korean restaurant. Plus, your gut will thank you for the probiotics in the kimchi! I like to warm my kimchi slightly in a pan before topping the rice, then fry the egg in the same kimchi-flavored pan.

The resulting bowl is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or those nights when cooking feels impossible but takeout isn’t happening. Who knew something so simple could be so ridiculously satisfying?

6. Sauteed Spinach + Sesame Seeds

Sometimes the simplest things are the most satisfying, right? This Korean-inspired topping might seem basic, but the flavor is anything but! Just quickly sauté a big handful of spinach (it shrinks like crazy, so don’t be shy) with a bit of minced garlic and a drizzle of sesame oil until it just wilts. Finish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and maybe a tiny splash of soy sauce.

What you get is this clean, earthy topping that makes your rice feel nourishing and special without weighing you down. I turn to this on days when I’ve maybe overindulged and need something green but satisfying. The iron from the spinach combined with the richness from the sesame creates this perfect balance that works beautifully on both hot rice bowls and crispy rice cakes. It’s like giving your body a little hug while still feeling like you’re eating something delicious!

7. Miso Glazed Mushrooms

Can we talk about how mushrooms are basically magic? These miso-glazed beauties deliver such meaty satisfaction without any actual meat! The umami factor is off the charts when you combine earthy mushrooms with savory miso paste. I usually sauté a mix of mushrooms (shiitake, cremini, whatever looks good) until they release their moisture, then add a mixture of miso paste, a touch of maple syrup or honey, and a splash of rice vinegar.

As they caramelize, they develop this incredible sticky glaze that’s to die for over rice. The best part is how versatile this topping is – it works amazingly well on both steaming rice bowls and crispy rice cakes. For extra punch, I scatter some thinly sliced scallions on top for freshness and color contrast. Even my mushroom-skeptical friends have been converted by this topping – it’s that good!

8. Thai Basil Ground Chicken

If you haven’t tried making Pad Krapow-inspired ground chicken at home, prepare to have your mind blown by how quick and delicious it is! This Thai street food classic makes an incredible rice topping that’s ready in about 10 minutes flat. Just stir-fry ground chicken with garlic, chili, fish sauce, soy sauce, and a touch of sugar, then toss in a generous handful of Thai basil at the end until it wilts.

The aroma alone will have you drooling! The fragrant basil combined with the savory, slightly spicy chicken creates this perfect balance that’s absolutely addictive over rice. For the full experience (which I highly recommend), crown it with a fried egg with crispy edges and a runny yolk. This has saved me countless times when I need a protein-packed meal that feels special but comes together in minutes. Perfect for those nights when takeout is tempting but your wallet is saying “cook at home!”

9. Tofu + Chili Oil Crunch

As someone who used to think tofu was boring (I know, I know), this combination completely changed my perspective! Whether you prefer your tofu cold and silky or pan-fried until golden, topping it with chili crisp oil creates magic on rice. That contrast between the mild, protein-rich tofu and the complex, crunchy, spicy oil is seriously next-level good.

I usually cube firm tofu, pan-fry until crispy (or just drain if I’m feeling lazy), then generously drizzle with store-bought chili crisp oil – Lao Gan Ma is my ride-or-die, but any good quality one works! The texture explosion makes plain rice feel like a gourmet meal.

This vegan option packs enough protein to keep you satisfied and works equally well on fluffy jasmine rice or crispy rice cakes. When I’m feeling fancy, I’ll add some thinly sliced cucumber for freshness and contrast. Trust me, this will convert even the most dedicated tofu skeptics!

10. Peanut Sauce + Cucumber

Remember that Thai restaurant peanut sauce you can never get enough of? Imagine having it on rice with cool, crunchy cucumber slices! This combo brings all those beloved Thai flavors right to your home kitchen. The sauce is surprisingly simple to whip up – just blend peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, a touch of brown sugar, and a splash of water until smooth.

Drizzle it generously over rice, then top with thinly sliced cucumber for that perfect hydrating crunch. What I love about this topping is how it works at any temperature – make it ahead for lunchboxes or enjoy it freshly made.

The sweet-savory peanut sauce soaks into the rice beautifully while the cucumber keeps everything fresh and light. When I’m having a hectic week, I make a big batch of the sauce to transform simple rice into something I actually look forward to eating. Add a sprinkle of crushed peanuts on top if you’re feeling fancy!

11. Bulgogi Beef Strips

There’s something about thinly sliced, marinated beef that makes any rice dish feel like a special occasion! Bulgogi – that heavenly Korean creation of sweet-savory-garlicky beef – might sound fancy but it’s surprisingly simple to make at home.

The marinade is a magical mix of soy sauce, brown sugar, Asian pear (or apple in a pinch), garlic, and sesame oil. After marinating thinly sliced beef for at least an hour, it cooks in literally minutes! The best part? A little goes a long way – just a few slices transform plain rice into the most satisfying meal.

I like to make a big batch on Sunday and portion it out for the week – it freezes beautifully too! For the full experience, serve with some kimchi or quick-pickled vegetables. Trust me when I say this will become your new favorite “treat yourself” meal that feels indulgent but is actually super easy to pull together!

12. Japanese Pickled Veggies (Tsukemono)

Let’s talk about the unsung hero of rice toppings: Japanese pickled vegetables! These colorful, zippy additions bring such incredible contrast to plain rice – that perfect sour, salty crunch against soft, neutral grains. The beautiful thing about tsukemono is how they transform humble vegetables like daikon, cucumber, or cabbage into these vibrant flavor bombs.

They add not just taste but visual appeal to your rice bowls or rice cakes. Plus, they’re packed with probiotics for good gut health! I love keeping a small batch in my fridge for those times when my rice needs a quick flavor boost.

They’re especially perfect for light summer meals or as a side to balance richer dishes. You can buy them premade at Asian markets, but they’re surprisingly easy to make at home too – just salt, vinegar, and a little patience! Your taste buds will thank you for adding this colorful, flavorful dimension to your rice game.

13. Coconut Milk Curry Chickpeas

When I need something hearty but don’t want to feel weighed down, this creamy, spiced topping is my absolute go-to! The combination of protein-packed chickpeas simmered in a fragrant coconut curry sauce creates this incredibly satisfying topping that transforms plain rice into a proper meal.

The beauty is in its simplicity – just sauté some onions and garlic, add curry powder or paste, toss in drained chickpeas, and finish with coconut milk. Let it simmer until slightly thickened and your kitchen smells amazing.

The result is this gorgeous, golden topping that’s both filling and flavor-packed! It’s totally meal-prep friendly too – I often make a big batch on Sunday to enjoy throughout the week. This works beautifully as both a vegan rice bowl centerpiece or spread on rice cakes for a more substantial snack. When I’m feeling fancy, I add some chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime to brighten it all up!

14. Garlic Shrimp + Lime

Nothing says “I’ve got my life together” like perfectly cooked garlic shrimp over rice, am I right? This combination feels so luxurious but comes together in literally minutes – perfect for those nights when you want something impressive without the effort! Just quickly stir-fry peeled shrimp with plenty of minced garlic, a touch of ginger, and finish with a generous squeeze of lime juice.

The resulting topping is bright, zesty, and protein-packed – exactly what your rice has been dreaming of. I love how versatile this one is – serve it over traditional rice bowls or arrange it on rice cakes for Asian-inspired appetizers that will make you look like a culinary genius. For an extra flavor kick, add some chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil. This is my secret weapon for last-minute entertaining or when I need to feel like I’m treating myself to something special without the takeout bill!

15. Seaweed Salad

Have you discovered the joy of seaweed salad on rice yet? This slippery, umami-rich topping brings incredible oceanic flavor that makes rice feel special in an instant! A staple in Japanese cuisine, seaweed salad delivers that perfect balance of savory, slightly sweet, and tangy notes.

The texture contrast is what makes this combo so addictive – the cool, slippery seaweed against warm, fluffy rice creates this temperature and texture play that’s so satisfying. Beyond taste, it’s packed with minerals and iodine, making it a nutrient-dense, low-calorie option for those days when you want something light but satisfying.

You can find ready-made seaweed salad at most Asian markets or sushi counters, which makes this a super convenient option! I like to sprinkle mine with toasted sesame seeds for added crunch. It works beautifully on both rice bowls and as an elegant topping for rice cakes when you want something a little different!

16. Gochujang Mayo + Cabbage Slaw

Looking for that perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and crunchy? This Korean-inspired topping delivers major flavor with minimal effort! Start by mixing gochujang (Korean chili paste) with mayo until you get that gorgeous pink sauce with just the right kick. Drizzle or dollop it over rice, then top with a simple cabbage slaw for freshness and crunch.

The combination is absolutely magical – the spicy-creamy sauce soaks into the rice while the cabbage provides that necessary textural contrast. What’s amazing about this topping is how it transforms plain rice into something you’ll actually crave! It works equally well on warm rice bowls or crispy rice cakes for a more substantial snack.

The best part? You can prep both components ahead of time for super quick meals throughout the week. Just store the sauce and slaw separately until ready to use. I’ve converted countless friends to this combo – it’s that good!

17. Curry Roasted Veggies

There’s something magical about what curry powder does to roasted vegetables, right? This topping is my go-to when I’m craving something hearty but plant-based. Just toss chunks of sweet potato, carrots, and cauliflower (or whatever veggies you have hanging out in your fridge) with olive oil, curry powder, salt, and pepper, then roast until they’re golden and caramelized.

The natural sweetness of the vegetables combined with the warm, aromatic curry creates this incredibly satisfying topping that makes rice feel like a proper meal. What I love most is how meal-prep friendly this option is – make a big batch on Sunday, and you’ve got delicious toppings ready all week!

It works beautifully whether served warm or at room temperature, making it perfect for packed lunches. Even my veggie-suspicious nephew gobbles this up without complaint! For extra flavor, try adding a dollop of yogurt or chutney when serving.

18. Sesame-Crusted Tofu + Scallions

As someone who used to think tofu was punishment food, trust me when I say this preparation will change your mind! The contrast between the crispy sesame exterior and the tender interior creates this incredible textural experience that’s absolutely perfect over rice.

To make it, just press your tofu (really press it – nobody wants soggy tofu!), cut into cubes or slabs, coat with cornstarch, dip in water, then press into sesame seeds before pan-frying until golden. The result is this gorgeously crunchy, nutty crust that elevates humble tofu to star status. Finish with a generous sprinkle of sliced scallions for freshness and color contrast.

What makes this topping so great is its versatility – enjoy it hot off the pan or cold from the fridge the next day. It’s a protein-packed vegan option that actually satisfies, whether you’re putting it on a traditional rice bowl or topping rice cakes for a more substantial snack!

19. Tamago (Japanese Sweet Egg Omelette)

Have you tried making tamago at home yet? This sweet-savory Japanese omelette might seem fancy, but it’s surprisingly doable in a regular kitchen! Unlike Western omelettes, tamago is made by rolling multiple thin layers of seasoned eggs in a rectangular pan, creating this beautiful, slightly sweet egg cake that’s amazing when sliced and laid over rice.

The unique flavor comes from a subtle mix of mirin, sugar, and soy sauce whisked into the eggs before cooking. What makes tamago such a great rice topping is how it works equally well hot or cold – meaning you can make it ahead and enjoy it throughout the week! Kids absolutely love the gentle sweetness, making this a great way to introduce little ones to Japanese flavors.

Don’t worry if your rolling technique isn’t perfect at first – even imperfect tamago is delicious! For a simple but impressive meal, pair tamago slices with some cucumber and avocado over rice.

20. Sweet Soy Glazed Tempeh

If you haven’t fallen in love with tempeh yet, this preparation might just convert you! Tempeh’s firm, chewy texture and nutty flavor make it the perfect candidate for a sweet soy glaze that caramelizes beautifully when cooked. Just slice your tempeh thinly, then simmer it in a mixture of soy sauce, a touch of maple syrup or brown sugar, garlic, and ginger until the liquid reduces to a sticky glaze coating each piece.

The result is this incredibly satisfying plant-based protein that’s packed with flavor and holds its own as a rice topping. What I love about this option is how substantial it feels – it’s perfect when you want something hearty but plant-based.

The sweet-savory balance works wonderfully on both traditional rice bowls and rice cakes when you need a protein boost. For perfect balance, add some shredded carrot or cucumber on the side to cut through the richness. Trust me, even dedicated meat-eaters will go back for seconds of this one!