Rice is one of the basic food products in the world. Its variety allows you to match its type to almost every dish, from exotic dishes to daily dinners. However, not every rice tastes and behaves the same. Basmati ricecalled the king among rice, it is distinguished by both the unique taste and unique properties that make it an excellent choice for people who care about a healthy diet. How is it different from ordinary rice? What nutrients does it contain? And finally – how to cook him so that he always comes out perfectly? You can find answers to these questions below.
What is the difference between basmati rice and ordinary rice? At first glance, they seem similar, but the differences between them are significant. The first one is characterized by longer and slimy grains than white or parboiled rice. After cooking, loose remains, thanks to which it is an ideal addition to dishes requiring an elegant presentation. In addition, it stands out with a slightly floral-nut fragrance, which is the result of natural aromatic compounds that develop during its maturation-this process can last up to several years.
Another difference is lower glycemic indexwhich makes Basmati a much better choice for people who care about stable blood glucose. Its delicate consistency and unique taste make it particularly valued in Indian, Thai and Middle Eastern cuisine.
Why is it worth eating basmati rice? It offers not only a unique taste experience, but also a wealth of nutritional values that speak for its regular consumption. It is primarily a source of complex carbohydrates that provide energy for longer, supporting the proper functioning of the body. Thanks to the low glycemic index, it helps to control blood sugar levels, which makes it the right choice for diabetics and people who care about the figure. This type of rice is also easily digestible, which means that it does not burden the digestive system. What’s more, it contains small amounts of fat, and at the same time provides important minerals, such as magnesium, phosphorus and potassium.
Magnesium supports the functioning of the muscles and nervous system, while potassium helps to maintain normal blood pressure. It is also worth mentioning that Basmati rice contains quite a large portion of dietary fiber that improves intestinal health and regulates digestive processes. Interestingly, it is also naturally gluten -free, which is why it perfectly fits into the menu of people with special dietary requirements.
Basmati rice cooking is not difficultbut it should consist of a few simple steps that allow you to bring out the full taste and loose consistency. Before starting thermal treatment, thoroughly rinse the product under running water to get rid of excess starch. Then put it in a bowl with cold water for about 20-30 minutes. The grains prepared in this way will cook more evenly. How to cook Basmati rice? It’s best to do it in a 1: 2 ratio, i.e. one part of the rice for two parts of water. Just bring it to a boil, add a pinch of salt and throw rice into it. After covering the pot, cook it on low heat for about 10-12 minutes until all liquid is absorbed. Finally, it is recommended to leave it for a few minutes under cover, so that he rest a bit and obtain the perfect consistency.
You have no idea How to use basmati rice in the kitchen? Today we have a sweet proposal for you with your favorite seasonal fruit of Poles – Basmati rice with strawberry sauce and roasted almonds.
Ingredients:
- 1 kg of strawberries,
- 1 cream 18%,
- 2 Basmati rice bags,
- 2 vanilla sugar bags,
- 2 tablespoons of sugar,
- A handful of almond petals.
Cook rice in water with the addition of vanilla sugar – shorten cooking time by 2-3 minutes to avoid cooking.
When cooking rice, cut out the staff of strawberries, wash them. Mash in a bowl with a fork. It is important that it is not blended mass, but to keep pieces of strawberries.
Add cream and the amount of sugar that suits you.
In a dry frying pan, thread almond flakes, cool down.
Serve cooked rice with strawberry sauce, sprinkled with almond flakes.
Source: dietetycy.org, Szekier.pl, Terazpoczy.pl