This Thailand-approved ingredient is one of our most clutch pantry items

Thai Hom Mali rice is a premium grain guaranteed by the Government of Thailand that can be used in everything from curries and sushi to desserts and puddings. 

Thai Hom Mali rice | Thai basil eggplant with minced pork served over steamed jasmine rice, garnished with fresh basil leaves and dried red chilies in a white bowl

Reaching for rice is one of the easiest pantry moves in our armoury, but not all rice is created equal. Thai Hom Mali rice is the premium Thai jasmine rice on the market and one of Thailand's finest agricultural products. Imported to Canada to offer home cooks access to high-quality rice, this versatile, shelf-stable staple has become a go-to pantry ingredient in kitchens across the country. And don't let its name fool you — it isn't just for Thai curries or Asian cuisine.

Often referred to as a premium jasmine rice because of its pearly white grains, reminiscent of the delicate jasmine flower, Thai Hom Mali rice is prized for its fragrant aroma, likened to pandan leaves. While it's delicious in classic Thai cuisine, it's also a versatile ingredient that shines in everything from rice salads and arancini to rice pudding.

In addition to creating the base for delicious dishes, Thai Hom Mali rice is a source of vitamin B1, B2, niacin and minerals such as iron and magnesium.

Like other protected ingredients from around the world, Thai Hom Mali rice is carefully inspected and certified by the Government of Thailand, earning an official seal (“The Green Logo”) that guarantees its authenticity and exceptional quality. As a result, every bag of Thai Hom Mali rice sold in Canada contains premium grains sourced from Thailand and can be found at grocers across the country, from major supermarket chains to independent and specialty retailers.

For the best flavour and texture, look for the Green Certification Mark when purchasing Thai Hom Mali rice. Issued by Thailand's Department of Foreign Trade, this seal guarantees that the rice is grown in Thailand from certified Hom Mali varieties, ensuring authenticity and consistent quality in every bag. A quick peek at the packaging can help ensure the rice you're buying is genuinely from Thailand.

To learn more and discover recipes for your favourite Thai meals, head to @thaiselectca

Thai Hom Mali rice

Pulled Chicken Thai Coconut Rice

Slow-braised chicken and Thai rice come together in this comforting one-pot meal packed with fresh crunch and Thai-inspired flavours.

Serves 4-6

Cooking time 75 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1lb boneless skinless chicken thigh
  • Salt and pepper
  • 3 cloves of garlic, finely minced
  • 1 inch of ginger, finely minced
  • 1 green chilli, sliced
  • 1 Tbsp curry powder
  • 2 cans of coconut milk
  • 2 cups Thai Hom Mali rice
  • 2½ cups water
  • 1 Tbsp fish sauce
  • 1 Tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 3–4 dried lime leaves (optional)
  • ¼ cup green onion, sliced
  • ¼ cup red finger chilli, sliced
  • ½ cup carrot, shredded
  • ½ cup snow peas, sliced 
  • 1 lime, juiced 

Method

For the Pulled Chicken

  1. Season chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. Lay into a hot, oven-safe skillet and sear for 2–3 minutes.

Add garlic, ginger, green chilli, curry powder and coconut milk. Transfer to the oven and braise at 350 F for about 1 hour or until the chicken is pull-apart tender. Set aside. 

For the rice

  1. Rinse rice with cold water and drain 2–3 times or until the water is mostly clear,
  2. Add rice to a pot over medium-high heat with water, fish sauce, soy sauce, turmeric and lime leaf.
  3. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to very low. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes.
  4. Remove from the heat, keep the rice covered, and let it rest for an additional 5–10 minutes.


To assemble

  1. Remove the lime leaves from the rice and add to a serving dish.
  2. Fold in pulled chicken, green onions, snow peas, carrots and finger chillies. Squeeze fresh lime over top and enjoy.