The wide variety of types of rice can seem really huge - white rice, brown rice, blanched rice, basmati rice, jasmine rice, etc. What you probably don't know, however, is that instant rice is also available in stores.
What is it, what are its benefits and does it cause any harm to our health?
Unlike ordinary types of rice, whose cooking time can vary from about 15 to 30 minutes, the preparation of instant rice takes from 1 to 7 minutes. This is due to the fact that it is boiled in advance and then dried. It is practically semi-cooked. Depending on the brand and packaging of the rice, you can either put it directly in your microwave or boil it, stew it, etc.
However, instant rice is dried by a dehydration process, during which much of the nutritional value of the rice is lost. On the one hand, this makes it not as high quality as ordinary rice, but on the other hand - it is much lower in calories. Whether this is its pro or a con, you can decide for yourself.
Whether it is brown or white instant rice, we can point out that its grains often break during the dehydration process and lose their shape. We will also add the fact that it is much more expensive.
In any case, it is good to have instant rice at home, because it often happens that you do not have enough time to prepare actual healthy meals. You have had to stay longer at work or suddenly guests have arrived.
Instant rice is a great solution for such cases, because many of the companies that offer it guarantee that it will be ready in just 3 minutes. This way you will easily get a great side dish that fits almost any main course.
Instant rice is also very suitable if you have decided to indulge in camping. Whether you have instant rice in a tent, in a camper or a caravan, it is important because you will be able to spend minimal time preparing your food, while you will have plenty of time to enjoy the nature around you.
And if you are a fan of traditional recipes with rice, see our favorite recipes for rice salads, delicious chicken with rice and for dessert, we have rice pudding recipes for you.
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