Fluffy rice is studded with cubes of creamy yam for a subtly sweet, nourishing one-pot dish. This healthy, vegetarian-friendly family meal is gentle and comforting.
Rinse the long-grain white rice in cold water until the water runs clear, then drain well. Peel the yam and cut into ½-inch cubes.
Heat the sesame oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and sauté for 2 minutes until soft.
Add the cubed yam and sliced shiitake mushrooms to the pot. Stir for 2–3 minutes, ensuring the yams are well coated and starting to soften.
Add rinsed rice, vegetable broth, soy sauce, salt, and white pepper. Stir gently to combine evenly.
Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot tightly and simmer for 20 minutes without lifting the lid.
After 20 minutes, turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 10 minutes to finish steaming. Fluff gently with a fork before serving.