If you're looking for a quick and easy side dish, Original Instant Enriched White Rice might be your answer. With 160 calories per serving, this rice is a versatile ingredient to use in a variety of dishes.

Not only is it low in calories, but it's also a good source of carbohydrates, providing 35 grams of carbs per serving. Unfortunately, it doesn't offer any fiber, so it's not the most nutritious option out there.

In this article, we'll explore some practical tips and strategies to cook with and enhance the nutritional value of White Rice.

Calories and serving size

One serving of Original Instant Enriched White Rice, which is half a cup measured uncooked or a cup measured cooked, provides 160 calories. This serving size is perfect as a base for many dishes. However, serving size adjustment is important for people concerned about calorie intake and weight loss.

Carbohydrates and fiber

White rice is a rich source of carbohydrates; the half-cup serving size mentioned above provides you with 35 grams of carbs, which is approximately 12% of the daily value recommended for an average person. Unfortunately, white rice lacks fiber. Individuals who consume mostly refined carbohydrates and lack fiber in their diet are at risk of certain health problems, such as constipation and heart disease.

Fat and protein

White rice is super low in fat — only about 0.5 grams in the serving size we mentioned earlier. Most people associate rice with being low in protein too, which is true for white rice. The same serving size that provides you with 160 calories provides only 3 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Dieticians usually recommend that people try to make a balanced diet that includes various food groups in the right quantity, rather than relying on just one ingredient. However, we still get some vitamins and minerals from white rice. Brown rice is a notably better source of nutrients, but there are some elements to appreciate in white rice.

Glycemic index

White rice has a high glycemic index, which means it rapidly raises your blood sugar levels if consumed in large quantities. A high intake of high GI foods has been linked to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and other obesity-related diseases. People with diabetes need low glycemic index food in their diet to manage their blood sugar levels.

Rice cooking tips

White rice is popular due to its versatility and convenience. Here are some tips to make it taste even better: First, rinse the rice quickly under lukewarm water to wash away excess starch, and soak it for 30 minutes to an hour. Second, add a teaspoon of butter to the pot to give the rice flavor. Lastly, add a dash of salt to the pot to give the rice more seasoning.

Rice varieties

White rice is one of many rice varieties. Brown rice, Jasmine rice, Basmati rice, and Arborio rice are other popular types. Each has its unique flavor, nutrient value, cooking time, and texture. Rice products range from unprocessed rice grains to flour and rice cereals.

Rice health benefits

White rice is a great source of carbohydrates that supply sufficient energy to the body. It is gluten-free, which is useful to people diagnosed with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. It is low in fiber and is easy-to-digest, making it an excellent option for people with digestive problems. Rice is a versatile ingredient and a staple part of many diets around the world.

Rice alternatives

White rice isn't the only option out there. Brown rice, quinoa, barley, and whole wheat pasta are some healthier whole-grain alternatives to try.

Rice recipes

Here are some recipe ideas to get you started: Quick and Easy Fried Rice, One-Pot Chicken and Rice, Rice and Bean Salad, and Stuffed Peppers with Rice. The possibilities are endless.