I didn't miss the rice at all, and it wasn't really runny either. I was surprised it wasn't really runny. You could throw in some rice if you like (or you must! <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Grin.gif" alt="" />), but the combination of spices was really nice, which was one of the main things I enjoyed. Going to have some leftovers for lunch today. We'll see how well it does reheated.