An illustrated guide to the universal grain. It opens with an introduction to the many different types of rice and the products made from it. Then, in a chapter-by-chapter tour of the world, the recipe section that follows presents more than 130 easy-to-follow recipes in a mouth-watering display of the versatility of rice. Classic recipes such as Chinese fried rice, sushi and kedgeree sit alongside contemporary dishes such as celebration paella from Spain, two cheese risotto from Italy and Californian citrus fried rice. Over 500 colour photographs help you to explore and appreciate the amazing repertoire of this simple staple food. This is an authoritative reference and illustrated directory to the history, cultivation and wealth of rice varieties available in the 21st century.