If you're looking for a versatile and healthy grain, look no further than 1/4 cup dry (49 g) Calrose Rice. With a delicious nutty flavor and tender yet firm texture, this California-grown medium grain rice is perfect for a wide range of dishes. Best of all, it provides only 180 calories per serving, making it a great low-calorie option.

Calrose rice is also packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, potassium, and thiamin, which are necessary for healthy metabolism and energy production. It also provides dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health and prevents constipation.

In this article, we'll explore the various benefits and nutritional value of Calrose rice, how to cook it, and some easy meal ideas that you can try at home.

Calories in 1/4 Cup Calrose Rice

As mentioned earlier, 1/4 cup (49 g) Calrose rice provides only 180 calories, which makes it a great option for those who are watching their calorie intake. This serving size also contains 1 gram of fat, 39 grams of carbohydrates, and 3 grams of protein, making it a well-rounded source of energy.

Nutritional Value of Calrose Rice

Calrose rice is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, potassium, thiamin, and dietary fiber. Here are some of the nutritional values per 1/4 cup (49 g) serving:

• Iron: 10% of Daily Value (DV)
• Potassium: 2% of DV
• Thiamin: 6% of DV
• Dietary Fiber: 1 gram

As you can see, Calrose rice provides a variety of essential nutrients needed for a healthy diet.

Are There Any Health Benefits of Calrose Rice?

Yes, there are many health benefits to consuming Calrose rice. Here are some of the key benefits:

• Promotes digestive health and prevents constipation due to its high fiber content.
• Provides essential vitamins and minerals needed for healthy metabolism and energy production.
• May improve heart health due to its low levels of saturated fat and high levels of fiber and other heart-healthy nutrients.

Overall, Calrose rice is a healthy and nutritious addition to any diet.

How to Cook Calrose Rice?

Cooking Calrose rice is easy and can be done in a variety of ways. Here's one basic recipe to get you started:

1. Rinse 1 cup of Calrose rice in cold water.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
3. Add the rice and stir briefly.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

You can also cook Calrose rice in a rice cooker or use it to make sushi, paella, or other delicious dishes.

Calrose Rice vs. Other Rice Varieties

While Calrose rice is a popular choice, it's always good to know how it stacks up against other rice varieties. Here's a comparison chart to help guide you:

Rice Variety	Texture	Flavor	Cooking Time
Calrose	Medium-grain	Nutty	18-20 minutes
Basmati	Long-grain	Earthy	22-25 minutes
Arborio	Short-grain	Creamy	20-25 minutes

As you can see, Calrose rice falls in the medium-grain category and has a delicious nutty flavor. However, it ultimately depends on personal preference and the type of dish you are making.

How to Store Cooked Calrose Rice?

If you have leftover Calrose rice, it's important to store it properly to prevent spoilage and foodborne illnesses. Here are some tips for storing cooked rice:

1. Let the rice cool completely before storing.
2. Transfer the rice to an airtight container, such as a plastic container or a zipper bag.
3. Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 6 months.
4. When reheating, make sure the rice is steaming hot all the way through before eating.

Following these simple steps will ensure that your cooked Calrose rice stays fresh and safe to eat for an extended period.

Possible Side Effects of Consuming Calrose Rice

While Calrose rice is generally safe to consume, it may cause some side effects in some people. Here are some of the potential side effects:

• May cause bloating and gas due to its high carbohydrate content.
• May contain arsenic, which can be toxic in high doses. However, California-grown Calrose rice generally contains low levels of arsenic and is safe to consume.

If you experience any adverse side effects after consuming Calrose rice, stop eating it and consult a healthcare professional.

Calrose Rice Meal Ideas

Now that you know the many benefits and ways to cook Calrose rice, let's explore some delicious meal ideas:

• Sushi rolls with Calrose rice, avocado, cucumber, and imitation crab meat.
• Paella with Calrose rice, shrimp, chicken, chorizo, peas, and saffron.
• Calrose rice stir-fry with tofu, broccoli, carrots, and soy sauce.

The possibilities are endless, and Calrose rice can be used as a base for a variety of flavorful and nutritious meals.

Where to Buy Calrose Rice?

Calrose rice can be found at most grocery stores and online retailers. Look for California-grown varieties for the best quality and safety standards. Here are some of the best places to buy Calrose rice:

• Amazon
• Whole Foods Market
• Safeway
• Trader Joe's
• RiceSelect

Be sure to check the expiration date and storage instructions before purchasing and cooking Calrose rice.

Final Thoughts

Calrose rice is a healthy and nutritious grain that is perfect for a wide range of dishes. Not only is it low in calories and high in fiber, but it also provides essential vitamins and minerals necessary for a healthy diet. Whether you're using it to make sushi or paella, or simply as a side dish, Calrose rice is an excellent choice for any meal. Be sure to follow proper cooking and storage instructions to ensure its safety and freshness.