Spotlight on Rice

Rice is a multipurpose food. 

Rice is grown in warm parts of the world, including Asia, Africa, northern Italy and the United States. It is grown in regions with flat land, called paddies, or on terraces in mountainous areas .

Rice paddies

Rice terraces

Did you know that there are more than 40,000 varieties of rice? The most common types that we eat are white rice, basmati rice, jasmine rice, brown rice and colored rice.

Brown rice is a whole grain. When we eat whole grains, we are getting all of the nutrients and energy included in the whole seed. This helps us stay strong,  healthy and feel full for a longer time. It also helps in reducing the risk for cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure, obesity, and Type 2 diabetes.

You can serve it as a main course, as a side dish, for dessert and it is equally tasty either hot or cold! Stretch your meals  by adding  uncooked rice to a soup, stew, or casserole. You can also pre-cook brown rice  and keep a bowl in the refrigerator to serve as a side dish or even freeze it to use later.

Here are some ideas for cooking with rice:

• Rice is a great, low-cost ingredient for your main meal as a casserole. Try Easy Red Beans and Rice this summer.
  
• Does your family like salads? Rice Salad makes a cool refreshing dish for lunch or dinner on a hot day.
  
• Nothing could be easier than pairing rice with stir-fry vegetables you have on hand. Follow this basic recipe for Stir-Fried Vegetables, with Beef, Chicken or Tofu.
  
• Especially during the summer, when sweet bell peppers are in season, try our recipe for Stuffed Peppers for a healthy main meal.
  
• Rice pudding makes a wonderful dessert! Try this delicious option Sweet Potato Rice Pudding which pairs well with grilled foods.

Preparing Rice is Easy

Cooking Rice is simple! In general, cook 1 cup of rice in 2 cups of water. The amount of water may be different depending on the type of rice or your personal taste, so check the instructions on the rice package. In a pot on the stove, add rice and cold water. Over medium-high heat, bring rice and water to a boil. Cover and lower heat so that the water is barely boiling, until rice is cooked. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Quick cooking rice can also be cooked in the microwave using 1 cup water to 1 cup rice or as instructed on the box. Be sure to use a deep enough container so the water doesn’t boil over in the microwave and follow package instructions for cooking times. Then let the rice rest for about 5 to 10 minutes to absorb the water while you prepare the rest of the meal. Super-fast and easy!

Rice is a dried food, so you can always keep a supply in your pantry. With so many kinds of rice to choose from it gives you a lot of choices for a healthy meal. Why not make some delicious rice today?