29
Rice is the perfect foundation for today’s healthier eating. It is a nutrient-dense complex carbohydrate that supplies energy, fiber, essential vitamins and minerals
and beneficial antioxidants. Rice combines well with other healthy foods such as vegetables, fruits, meat, seafood, poultry, beans and soy foods.
Nearly 88% of rice consumed in the U.S. is grown in the U.S. Arkansas, California, Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi and Missouri produce high-quality varieties of
short, medium and long grain rice as well as specialty rices including jasmine, basmati, arborio, red aromatic and black japonica, among others.
There are many different varieties of rice available in the market. Your Aroma
®
Rice Cooker can cook any type perfectly every time. The following are the commonly
available varieties of rice and their characteristics:
Long Grain Rice
This rice has a long, slender kernel three to four times longer than its width.
Due to its starch composition, cooked grains are more separate, light and
fluffy compared to medium or short grain rice. The majority of white rice is
enriched to restore nutrients lost during processing. Great for entrees and
side dishes— rice bowls, stir-fries, salads and pilafs.
Medium Grain Rice
When compared to long grain rice, medium grain rice has a shorter, wider
kernel that is two to three times longer than its width. Cooked grains are
more moist and tender than long grain, and have a greater tendency to
cling together. Great for entrees, sushi, risotto and rice puddings.
Short Grain Rice
Short grain rice has a short, plump, almost round kernel. Cooked grains are
soft and cling together, yet remain separate and are somewhat chewy, with
a slight springiness to the bite. Great for sushi, Asian dishes and desserts.
For recipes and rice information visit the USA Rice Federation online at
www.usarice.com/consumer
.
Brown Rice
Brown rice is a 100% whole grain food that fits the U.S. Dietary Guidelines for
Americans recommendation to increase daily intake of whole grains. Brown rice
contains the nutrient-dense bran and inner germ layer where many beneficial
compounds are found. Brown rice is available in short, medium and long grain
varieties and can be used interchangeably with enriched white rice.
Wild Rice
Wild rice is an aquatic grass grown in Minnesota and California and is a frequent
addition to long grain rice pilafs and rice mixes. Its unique flavor, texture and
rich dark color provide a delicious accent to rice dishes. Wild rice also makes
a wonderful stuffing for poultry when cooked with broth and mixed with your
favorite dried fruits.
ABOUT RICE
Courtesy of the USA Rice Federation
