When it comes to preparing and eating rice, think whole grain and think brown. In contrast to white rice, its processed and refined counterpart, brown rice is unprocessed. While both versions contain the inner endosperm, the lack of processing means the outer shell and inner germ of brown rice remain intact. In addition to increasing its nutritional content, this also gives it a different flavor and texture. You can cook and eat unprocessed rice as a side dish or include it as an ingredient in salad, stuffing, stew and vegetarian dishes.
Stovetop/Microwave Method
Step 1
Mix together 1 cup of unprocessed rice with 2 ¼ cups of water, broth or juice in a 2- to 3-qt. saucepan or microwave-safe dish. You can add up to 1 tsp. of salt and up to 1 tbsp. of butter; however, leaving these ingredients out is a healthier alternative.
Step 2
Heat the mixture to boiling. If you are using the stovetop method, leave the cover off the pan and stir once or twice as the rice and liquid mixture heats. If you are using the microwave method, cover the dish and cook on high about five minutes or until the mixture starts to boil.
Step 3
Turn the heat on a stovetop down to a simmer; cover the saucepan and cook for about 45 to 50 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. If you are using the microwave method, reduce the power setting on your microwave to 50 percent and cook the rice for 30 minutes.
Step 4
Remove the cover from the saucepan or microwave dish and fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains and let the steam escape.
Health Nut Brown Rice Side Dish
Step 1
Melt 1 tbsp. margarine in a saucepan.
Step 2
Add 1/3 cup each of sliced almonds, sunflower kernels and julienned carrots to the saucepan. If you prefer a spicier dish, also add 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes.
Step 3
Cook until the almonds start to turn brown, then mix in 3 cups of cooked brown rice and 2 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley.
Step 4
Stir and cook the mixture until it is hot.
Tips and Warnings
- The yield of 1 cup of unprocessed rice cooks is about 3 to 4 cups of cooked rice.
- Unprocessed rice is a perishable food so make sure to refrigerate leftovers.
Things You'll Need
- Saucepan
- Microwave dish
- Salt
- Butter
- Fork
- Almonds
- Sunflower kernels
- Carrots
- Red pepper flakes
- Parsley
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