Parboiled rice is known by many as transformed rice and is the hidden gem of the rice world. The texture of this rice is fluffy and soft, like other white rice. This rice is very nutritious which should be included in your daily food routine. Many of us are familiar with different colors and varieties of rice, like basmati, jasmine, etc., and each of them has its own taste, aroma, and nutritional value. Overriding these, boiled rice has taken the top position. So today, I will introduce you to this healthy dish and tell you how to cook parboiled rice step by step. So, let's find out the hidden gems of the rice world.
What is Parboiled Rice?
This rice has long been used in Asian and African cultures due to its short cooking time. After harvesting the paddy from the field, the farmers prepare the paddy and remove the inedible husk to get a clean paddy. Three steps are taken to complete this process.
First, the collected rice should be soaked in hot water for several hours to increase its moisture content. In the second step, the soaked rice is poured into a large tray and steamed. In this process, raw rice's bacteria and other germs are destroyed. In the third step, the steamed rice should be dried well in the sun to reduce the moisture. After thoroughly drying the paddy, it is used in a rice mill to clean the inedible husk and extract the parboiled rice. This rice is called parboiled rice or transformed rice.
How to Cook Parboiled Rice - Simple Guide
Compared to the taste and nutritional value of parboiled rice, its cooking method is very simple. This recipe requires only two ingredients. I have made the recipe so you can cook it very easily and use it as your favorite side dish.
Ingredients -
- Parboiled rice
- Water
- A pinch of salt (optional)
Process of cooking boiled rice
- First, take a small medium-sized saucepan, add 2 cups of water, and put it on the stove on high heat.
- In the second step, wash the uncooked rice in clean cold water. This will wash off the excess dust from your rice. Now, when the water is hot, pour 1 cup of rice and salt into the boiling water and cover it. Salt is not essential you can omit it if you want.
- In the last step, add the rice to the boiling water, wait 20-30 minutes, and stir the rice 2-3 times. Boil the rice until all the water is absorbed. Once cooked, remove from oven. Now, the rice is completely ready to serve.
Note: The cooking time may be shorter or longer depending on the oven and cookware. For example, rice cookers and ovens take less time than saucepans. It takes more water to cook than rice. For example, 1 cup of rice requires 2 cups of water.
Is Parboiled Rice Healthy?
Parboiled rice has excellent health benefits compared to other types of rice.
- Boiled rice starch acts as a prebiotic in the human body. It is good for the gut and increases the number of good bacteria in the gut, which protects the stomach from acidity.
- This rice has a low glycemic index and is important in increasing insulin sensitivity. So, people suffering from diabetes can also consume it.
- It improves weight control and bone and hair health when consumed in moderation. Moreover, it is a good source of iron and calcium.
What is parboiled rice best used for?
Boiled rice is great for fried rice, rice salad, rice pilaf, oven baked casseroles, and more.