Rice – the versatile grain
Rice is a staple ingredient across the globe for good and simple reason: it can be served in so many ways. Find out more about its varieties and how to use it in this guide to the go-to grain, including recipes for paella, stir-fry and a no-roll sushi bowl
HOW TO COOK RICE
STEP 1
To make roughly 600g cooked rice (enough for 4 people), put 200g long grain white rice in a sieve and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear. Tip into a large bowl and cover with cold water. Set aside to soak for 30 minutes
STEP 2
Drain the soaked rice through a sieve and put in a large pan. Cover with 400ml cold water (double the weight of the rice) and a pinch of salt. Bring to the boil, stir once, then cover, turn the heat down to low and simmer gently for 11 minutes
STEP 3
Turn the heat off; stand for 5 minutes with the lid on. Fluff up with a fork and serve. If serving cold or using later, put in a sieve and run under cold water to cool. Refrigerate immediately for up to 24 hours, and heat through until piping hot to serve
What rice is best?
BOMBA PAELLA RICE
Grown in Spain, it has a pearly appearance. Its ability to absorb a high volume of liquid while maintaining its texture makes it ideal for paella
ARBORIO RICE
This Italian short-grain, starchy rice has a creamy yet chewy texture when cooked and is perfect for risotto
SUSHI RICE
This medium grain rice has a natural stickiness ideal for use in the countless varieties of sushi
BASMATI RICE
Popular in Indian cuisine, basmati grains have a long, slender shape that cooks easily to give a delicate fluffiness
IS RICE HEALTHY?
- Brown or wholegrain rice is higher in fibre than white rice, so it can help improve digestive health
- Wholegrain rice has the bran and germ left on and it's this layer that holds nutrients. It has been removed from white rice, meaning it contains far less nutrients
- All types of rice, whether white or brown are great sources of carbohydrate providing energy for the body and the brain
- Rice is gluten-free and suitable for coeliacs and for people who are sensitive to gluten
eASY RICE RECIPES
KIMCHI EGG FRIED RICE
Try this twist on traditional egg fried rice. The spicy flavour of the Korean dish adds punch
RICE PUDDING
Rice isn't just for savoury dishes, and this one features mango and coconut for an exotic twist
STIR-FRY
This quick and easy stir-fry is ready in 20 minutes. It's a source of fibre for a healthy midweek dinner
VEGETABLE PAELLA
Try this vegan take on the traditional Spanish dish. It's full of flavour and low in fat too
SUSHI BOWL
If sushi mastery isn't in your repertoire, try this easy recipe for a sushi bowl – no rolling required!
LEMON & PRAWN RISOTTO
Using arborio rice, this Good Health risotto uses two lemons for a bite of acidity that cuts through the creaminess
RED LENTIL DAHL
This perfectly spiced dish is served with garlicky spinach and fluffly basmati rice
NASI GORENG FRIED RICE
This Indonesian-inspired rice dish high in protein and can be easily adapted to use different meat or vegetables
SPEEDY SUPPERS
Microwavable rice pouches are quick, versatile and a perfect store-cupboard staple when time is short. They are available in different varieties from long grain white to egg fried rice and ready in two minutes