RICE 101

Rice is one of the oldest cereal grains in the world, and people have grown it for at least 5,000 years. It is a staple food for more than half of the world’s population.

Absorption Method

The absorption method is probably the best way to cook great-tasting rice. This methods steams the rice for perfect results every time.

Rinse 1 cup of rice thoroughly with cold running water, then place into a saucepan with 1 cup of cold water. Bring to the boil, reduce heat to low, and simmer, covered for 15 minutes. Turn off the heat and allow to stand for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and serve.

Boiling Method

In a saucepan bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 cup of rinsed rice and boil uncovered for 12-14 minutes or until tender. Drain and serve.

Although this method is the easiest, the rice is not as fluffy as when cooking with the absorption method. Brown rice needs to be cooked for 25 minutes, or until tender.

Microwaving

Place 1 cup of rinsed rice and 1 cup cold water into a large, microwave-safe bowl. Cover and cook on high for 12 minutes, or until tender. For a larger quantity of rice, cook 2 cups of rice with 3 cups of water for 14 minutes.

Cooking times may vary depending on the microwave, so refer to the appliance instructions for further cooking guidelines.

TIPS & FACTS: WASHING

RICE

Rinse cooked rice with cold water to remove any remaining starch, so grains don’t stick together.

SUSHI RICE

Wash sushi rice very well before cooking. Once cooked and seasoned, spread it over a tray lined with baking pepper to dry before shaping.

ARBORIO RICE

Arborio rice should never be rinsed. It needs starch to produce a creamy risotto.

EQUIPMENT:

A heavy-based saucepan with a tight-fitting lid is best.

PREPARATION:

For perfect rice, use 1 cup rice to 1 cup cold water. Fried rice is best when made with chilled one-day-old rice.

STORAGE:

Store raw rice in an airtight container in a cool, dark cupboard. It can last up to 1 year.

HEALTH FACTORS

Basmati rice is low in Glycemic Index, which means it releases energy slowly and is a better choice for maintaining stable energy levels. Rice is naturally gluten-free.