Minute Rice’s New Flavor Feels A Cut Above

It’s fair to say that Minute Rice has never been the fanciest food out there. That’s not to say it isn’t good – we voted two of its flavors among our favorite microwave rices – but let’s be real: Like other rice products that are ready in a few shakes of your tail, it’s built for convenience, not gourmet dining. It’s comforting. Simple. Easy. Rapid. But not fine dining. 

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And while that isn’t going to change any time soon, our curiosity and tastebuds were simultaneously piqued by Minute Rice’s new flavor, which feels like a gentle laying down of the gauntlet, and the brand saying “hey, we can get a little fancy sometimes, too.” What is it? Let’s discuss.

We See You, Minute Rice

Riviana Foods announced yesterday that it was launching two new Minute Rice Cups in Garlic Parmesan and Veggie Stir-Fry flavors. Both of them, it seems, are intended to boost the flavor side of Minute Rice, while keeping its speediness baked in. “Consumers want meals and snacks that are flavorful and convenient, and these new varieties of Minute Rice cups deliver on both,” said Riviana Foods’ director of marketing, Erica Larson, in a press release. “Whether you’re seeking a late night snack, an easy rice bowl lunch at the office, or a satisfying quick dinner, Garlic Parmesan and Veggie Stir Fry cups make it easy to enjoy craveable flavors that consumers know and love in just one minute.”

Now, both of these flavors sound good, but we want to take a moment to focus on Garlic Parmesan. It’s a timeless and, when done right, elegant flavor profile – and while garlic is pretty affordable, parmesan can be a pricey ingredient! And these cups actually do contain real Parmiggiano Reggiano cheese (check out the nutrition facts on the Minute Rice website if you don’t believe us). We can’t tell how much there is in there, and it may not taste as good as we hope – but we gently respect Minute Rice’s ambitions to make its options ever-so-slightly classier, without compromising on how quick they are to make. The Veggie Stir-Fry flavor, meanwhile, contains seasoned white rice, carrots, bell peppers, corn, peas, and soy sauce, and is also clearly aiming for flavor.

Where Can I Get Them?

At present, your best bet is to check the Minute Rice site for a location near you: Garlic Parmesan and Veggie Stir-Fry Rice Cups are on sale now, but only at select retailers. Riviana Foods says that their availability will grow as time goes on, though, so if they’re not available where you are yet, check back in a couple of weeks.