Switching to brown rice might be an excellent choice if you are wanting to control your weight or just want to consume healthier meals daily. The best brown rice brands offer you lots of nutritional values, are easy to cook, and allow you to make a variety of healthy recipes without much trouble. Plus, they have a rich aroma and quite a bit of flavor that makes food more appealing.
Best Pick
The UNCLE BEN'S Whole Grain Brown Rice is our best pick because it can be prepared within a very short period of time, has a soft texture that is not sticky or gummy, and goes well with a variety of food.
Budget Pick
Our budget pick is the Riceselect Brown Rice because it can be prepared in a very short period of time, comes in a BPA-free plastic jar that makes it easy to store, and has a nice aroma to it.
Quick Comparison: Top 13 Best Brown Rice Brands
| Product Name | Quantity Per Pack | Weight Per Container (oz) | Calories Per Serving | Servings Per Container | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UNCLE BEN'S Whole Grain Brown Rice | 6 | 8.80 | 190 | 2 | A |
| Riceselect Brown Rice | 4 | 32.00 | 170 | 20 | A |
| Pride Of India - Extra Long Brown Basmati Rice | 1 | 35.00 | 157 | 24 | A |
| Lundberg Black Japonica Rice | 6 | 16.00 | 150 | 10 | B |
| Nishiki Premium Brown Rice | 1 | 240.00 | 140 | 174 | A |
| Lundberg Organic California Brown Basmati Rice | 6 | 192.00 | 160 | 20 | A |
| Tasty Bite Brown Rice and Lentils | 6 | 8.80 | 390 | 1 | A |
| MINSLEY Steamed Brown Rice Bowl | 12 | 7.40 | 155 | 2 | A |
| Dynasty Jasmine Brown Rice | 1 | 80.00 | 160 | 50 | A |
| Sukoyaka Brown Rice | 1 | 70.40 | 160 | 45 | A |
| Planet Rice Sprouted Brown Gaba Rice | 6 | 22.00 | 160 | 10 | A |
| Tamanishiki Super Premium Brown Rice | 1 | 22.00 | 150 | 47 | A |
| Lotus Foods Gourmet Organic Brown Jasmine Rice | 1 | 400.00 | 210 | 180 | B |
1. UNCLE BEN'S Whole Grain Brown Rice
Cooking rice can be a complicated and time-consuming process for most individuals which is why you might want to get this pack of brown rice from UNCLE BEN’S. It comes in a pack of 6, filled with 8.8 ounces of healthy rice grains that can be fully cooked within just 90 seconds.
Each pack includes two servings and has a high source of protein and dietary fiber, making it a super convenient food. It also contains no trans fat or saturated fat, making it vegan-friendly. There are clear cooking instructions on the packaging that allow you to cook the rice grains uniformly. You will not need to rinse the rice grains before cooking them or add water to them during the cooking process.
What we liked: The packaging has a cool-touch side that allows you to take it out of the microwave without burning your hands. Moreover, individuals who are allergic to gluten can consume this product without incurring any health complications.
What we didn’t like: This product has a very short shelf life so you will need to consume it quickly.
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2. Riceselect Brown Rice
Living a healthy life has never been easy but with this brown rice from Riceselect, you can now enjoy a healthy meal. It doesn’t matter whether it is a great side dish or a main course, Texmati rice is specially designed to ensure you enjoy varied dishes as preferred.
When cooked, the rice boasts of a slightly chewy texture and a nutty taste. Besides, Textmati rice is organic and a good source of dietary fiber which is known to reduce any chances of developing coronary heart complications and colon cancer.
Riceselect can be enjoyed as pilaf, fried rice, stir fry or stuffing. Best when paired with sauces and strong seasonings.
What we liked: The brown rice is already packed with flavor so you will not need to add any extra ingredients to it while cooking. Moreover, the airtight jar allows you to keep the brown rice fresh for a long time while in storage.
What we didn’t like: The texture of the brown rice is a bit dry and you will need to give it a good rinse before putting them on the stove.
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3. Pride Of India - Extra Long Brown Basmati Rice
Pride of India brown rice is a 100% natural thin sized grain and extra-long rice which is cultivated from the fertile Himalayan valley with great care. The rice then undergoes a special aging process for a maximum of two years which reinvigorates a great rich aroma when cooked.
The rice has been a pride for most vegetarians and vegans who are looking forward to enjoying a tasty and nutritious meal. The rice is GMO-free, BPA free, gluten free and vegan. Usually, Pride of India rice comes sealed in food grade plastic pet jars ensuring a high level of hygiene.
What we liked: This brown rice is made using natural ingredients which makes it safe for consumption. Moreover, you will be able to prepare it in the microwave on a high heat setting within just 15 minutes.
What we didn’t like: You will not receive a large quantity of uncooked brown rice. You might want to get a pack of 2-3 if you do not want to reorder frequently.
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4. Lundberg Black Japonica Rice
Keep your families begging for more with this brown rice from Lundberg. The company boasts of their specialty to produce high quality, delicious and healthy rice which have been processed with high precision and vigilance to ensure you get nothing but the best.
Lundberg brown rice is a fine whole grain which is a blend of medium-grained mahogany rice from Japanese seeds and short black grained rice. The 66.1 pound rice touts of its nutty, mushroom-like flavoring perked up with sweet exotic spicery which leaves a sweet aroma in your dining room making your family and friends beg for more. To get the desired results, follow the recommended cooking guide.What we liked: This rice is a high source of protein and fiber. Each packet contains 4g of protein and 3g of fiber, making it a healthier alternative to white rice.
What we didn’t like: Each packet contains only 6 ounces of uncooked rice so you might need to open a few packets if you are cooking a meal for a large group of friends or family.
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5. Nishiki Premium Brown Rice
Nishiki is one of the leading producers of premium quality rice, and for years now, the company has supplied consumers with quality products that meet the industry standards, and this rice is not an exception.
Nishiki premium brown rice is medium grained rice from California which has been selected using high specialty to ensure you enjoy your dish at its best. The rice is all natural making it an excellent pick for vegans.
Preparing your rice is easy and fast. With this rice, you can make different type of dishes like vegan tofu scramble, Asian beef, and rice or customize it as preferred. Ideal for daily use.
What we liked: This brown rice has a mild nutty flavor that helps to make your meals more flavorful. Although it comes in a single pack, you will be offered a large quantity of healthy, uncooked brown rice.
What we didn’t like: Many users have found lots of weevils in the brown rice so make sure to rinse it thoroughly before use. Moreover, it takes quite a bit of time for the rice to cook fully.
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6. Lundberg Organic California Brown Basmati Rice
If you are in search of brown rice that is not too difficult to cook and has a nice, firm texture, you might want to add the Lundberg Organic California Brown Basmati Rice to your pantry. Each pack contains 32 ounces of long-grain rice that is full of healthy nutrients.
The rice grains are sourced ethically. It is certified “USDA Organic” which means that they are free from pesticides and other harmful substances. Made using 100% whole grain, you will receive a high protein content of 4g in each pack. The rice grains can be cooked in a pot or in a rice cooker and take at least 40 minutes to cook. It is recommended that you store the packs in your refrigerator for longer shelf life.
What we liked: The rice grains do not contain any sodium, trans fat, or saturated fat. Moreover, the rice grains have a non-sticky texture when cooked and have a mild flavor, too.
What we didn’t like: Many consumers have said that they end up with crunchy rice when they follow the cooking instructions on the packaging.
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7. Tasty Bite Brown Rice and Lentils
Cooking healthy meals from scratch daily might not be everyone’s forte which is why Tasty Bite has come up with the ultimate solution. It comes in a pack of 6 microwavable packages that each include 8.8 ounces of brown rice mixed with lentils. The meal is already seasoned with spices so you do not have to add anything else to improve its taste. All you need to do is put it in the microwave or cook it on the stovetop and then serve it as a main dish or as a side dish.
You can prepare the food within just 90 seconds on a high heat setting in the microwave. You do not need to transfer the uncooked food onto a microwave-safe bowl to prepare it.
All you need to do is cut two inches from the top to let the air circulate properly. To cook it on the stovetop, transfer the rice and lentils onto a pot and add two tablespoons of water. The rice and lentils should be fully cooked within just 4-5 minutes.
What we liked: The brown rice does not contain any peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, dairy, or soy so it is unlikely to cause an allergic reaction. Plus, you will be able to store the leftover rice in the refrigerator without deteriorating its quality.
What we didn’t like: This product is high in calories. Each container includes 390 calories which are higher than other brands of brown rice offer.
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8. MINSLEY Steamed Brown Rice Bowl
If you have a tight schedule and do not have the time or struggle to cook brown rice, the MINSLEY Steamed Brown Rice Bowl might be an excellent choice for you. It comes in a microwavable package, including 7.4 ounces of organic brown rice. There are two servings per container so you can easily prepare a meal for two within just 90 seconds in the microwave.
You will be able to cook it on the stovetop without transferring the rice grains onto another pot. You just need to place the package in boiling water for about 10 minutes for the rice to cook properly.
The brown rice is made using natural and healthy ingredients that do not put your health at risk. It does not contain any cholesterol, preservatives, sodium, or gluten. Moreover, vegetarians will be able to enjoy this product as well.
What we liked: The brown rice has a nice texture that is not too sticky or mushy. It has a mild flavor and gives off a fresh, flowery aroma.
What we didn’t like: This brand does not use biodegradable plastic packaging.
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9. Dynasty Jasmine Brown Rice
Dynasty brown rice is a trans-fat and saturated fat-free rice which makes it great for vegans. The rice is rich in proteins (2G) and fiber which allows you to not only to enjoy your meal but also add extra health nutrients to your body.
With this Dynasty rice, you do not have to spend hours in the kitchen. The rice cooks easily and faster, so you do not have to keep your loved ones waiting for long. The package comes in a convenient resealable bag of 5lbs.
What we liked: You will be able to freeze the leftover cooked brown rice without altering its flavor or texture. Moreover, the rice gives off a pleasant aroma when it is cooked.
What we didn’t like: If you do not follow the cooking instructions step by step, the rice is likely to have a very firm, soggy, or sticky texture.
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10. Sukoyaka Brown Rice
Nothing can be stressing like spending hours in the kitchen preparing food. However, Sukoyaka has made thing easy by producing premium quality rice that cooks fast. The rice is organic and is a good source of fiber, protein, iron, and thiamin.
Proteins are known as a bodybuilding food and for each serving of this Sukoyaka rice, you will get 3G proteins. This makes it an excellent choice for those who may be looking forward to adding a healthy diet while building their bodies. Customers who have taken this rice are satisfied with the result and the consistency of quality rice from the company.
What we liked: The cooked rice is unlikely to have a sticky texture, even if you add too much water to it. It has a soft texture that goes well with almost all types of food.
What we didn’t like: if you do not like short-grain rice, you might want to consider opting for another product.
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11. Planet Rice Sprouted Brown Gaba Rice
Decrease your cook time by 20% with this easy to cook brown rice from Planetrice. The rice is usually grown in Califonia , and the company has a long history of producing high-quality rice. For many years, Planetrice has kept its customers happy by maintaining excellent quality consistency.
Even when you store your cooked rice, it does not lose its taste. You can enjoy it on the second day which saves you time. Besides, Planetrice is organic and rich in healthy nutrients and essential vitamins which keep your body well nourished.
One good example of these vital food components present in Planetrice is GABA. Usually, GABA is an essential amino acid which is known to help reduce anxiety, high blood pressure, depression and enhance cardiovascular activities. The essential amino acid is also released by our brains and increasing its levels can help you fight these health complications. When cooked the rice has a soft and less chewy texture which makes it ideal for children and people with dental problems.
What we liked: This product does not include any trans fat, cholesterol, or sodium. Plus, it is easy to digest. The container is packed with medium-grain rice, you will get moist and tender brown rice when cooked.
What we didn’t like: You will need to follow the cooking instructions strictly if you do not want to end up with overcooked or undercooked rice.
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12. Tamanishiki Super Premium Brown Rice
Tamanishiki is premium brown rice which you will find in most prestigious Japanese restaurants. The rice is a combination of Yumegokochi rice and Koshihikari rice which gives it great texture and great flavor.
The rice is usually raised in California and is one of the super-premium brown rice. It’s all natural making it a good choice for both vegans and vegetarians. Usually, the rice comes in two packs with each pack weighing 4.4 pounds.
What we liked: The short-grain rice has a slightly sticky texture so you will be able to use it to make sushi if you do not mind the nutty flavor. Moreover, it is gluten-free.
What we didn’t like: Adding too much water will result in a porridge-like texture. You have to be very careful when cooking the rice.
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13. Lotus Foods Gourmet Organic Brown Jasmine Rice
If you are looking forward to adding healthy nutrients to your body, then look no further. This brown rice from Lotus Foods might be all that you need for a healthier diet. The company is always focused on giving its customers quality and healthy products.
Lotus Food also values cook time and are always determined to source for the best flavor organic rice varieties that cook quickly and faster. This is a great feature which makes their products unmatched with any standard rice brand.
With this fine organic jasmine rice, you can prepare your preferred dish ranging from plain rice, pilafs, and stir-fries to pudding giving you the freedom to enjoy your meal just the way you love it. The fact that Lotus food produces gluten-free products makes it an excellent choice for vegans and those who are looking forward to a healthy diet.
The rice is also a great pick for people who are gluten intolerant. This Lotus Foodrice rice comes in a 25-pound bag which is ideal for larger families and for minimizing the need for rushing to the shop often. It comes loaded with antioxidants and fiber which are essential to the body, keeping you and your loved ones well nourished.
What we liked: The rice cooks within just half an hour on the stovetop or in an electric rice cooker.
What we didn’t like: Lotus Foods need to improve its packaging since a lot of customers have found bugs and mold in the rice grains.
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Why is brown rice better?
During the production of brown rice, only the outermost layer is removed. This does not interfere with the nutrient content which is contrary to the way white rice is produced. The process that changes brown rice to white rice destroys the nutritional value of vitamin B1 by 80%, vitamin B3 by 67%, 60% iron, 90% of vitamin B9, 50% of manganese and phosphorous, and all the essential fats and fatty acids. This leaves white rice with low nutritional value.
Healthy benefits of eating brown rice
When compared to white rice, brown rice is known for its high nutrients, vitamins, essential minerals in regard to quality and quantity. However, each brand will differ from the other in terms of taste, flavor, texture, and nutrient content. With that said, below are the amazing benefits of introducing brown rice to your diet.
Manage weight
Brown rice contains Manganese which is an essential mineral which aids in synthesizing body fats. People with obesity or who have challenges managing their weight can do so by introducing brown rice to their diet.
Studies have also shown that when most people are stressed they tend to react to food which eventually causes excessive body weight gain. Brown rice also contains fiber which helps you feel fuller, a great feature for people who tend to gain more weight while stressed.
Reduces stress levels
People who consume brown rice are known to have less stress levels as compared to their counterparts who rely on white rice. Nursing mothers can also fight high fatigue levels, mood swings, and depression levels by introducing brown rice into their diet.
A study conducted in 2007 showed that introducing pre-germinate brown rice into lactating mothers diet can reduce mood disturbances. Once moods are managed, chances of getting depressed, anxious and stressed also go down.
Prevents breasts and colon cancer
Brown rice contains high levels of antioxidants and dietary fiber which helps fight breast and colon cancer. Unlike white rice, brown rice is known to have high bran which contains essential phenols like tricin acid, caffeic acid, and ferulic acid which help suppress the development of breast and colon cancer cells.
Promotes healthy digestion
High fiber content present in brown rice is known to improve the digestive system. People who have constipation or inflammatory bowel complications like colitis can benefit from taking brown rice.
Manages cholesterol levels
Brown rice is trans-fat and saturated fat-free, but instead contains naturally occurring oils which help maintain cholesterol levels. High cholesterol in the body has been linked to high blood pressure, heart diseases, and obesity.
Minimizes the probability of developing type 2 diabetes
Due to its high Magnesium levels, brown rice is known to inhibit the onset of type 2 diabetes. Studies have shown that magnesium helps produce enzymes which aid in regulating blood sugar and insulin production. Production of these vital enzymes helps manage insulin levels in the body thus minimizing any chances of developing diabetes.
Individuals with diabetes can introduce brown rice to their diet to manage the condition as well as preventing any chances of developing type-2 diabetes. Aside from preventing type 2 diabetes, magnesium is also known to fight other health complications which among them include: migraine headaches, Asthma, coronary heart disease, and high blood pressure.
Helps build the body
Proteins are known to help the body develop stronger muscles, and brown rice is one of the good sources of healthy proteins. Individuals who may be looking forward to building stronger body muscles can do so by introducing brown rice to their diet.
Enhance how nervous system functions
Brown rice contains magnesium and manganese minerals as well as vitamin B which are great for a healthy nervous system. Vitamin E also plays a vital role in promoting a healthy brain.
Boosts energy levels
Brown rice is high in starch which is further broken down by the body to ensure you have enough energy. This implies that people who consume brown rice are more likely to be more productive than those who consume white rice.
Factors to consider when buying brown rice
As mentioned earlier, brown rice usually differs from one brand to another. So before you spend your money on any rice, you should be sure about what, exactly, you are buying. There is more than just the color. And without any further ado, let's have a look at the factors that you should consider when purchasing your brown rice.
Size of the grain
Brown rice comes either as short, medium or long sized grains. For short grains, the rice is shorter as compared to medium-sized type. The grains are sticky and tender. When cooked, the short-grained rice has creamy texture which makes it a great pick when preparing pudding, risotto or sushi.
Medium-grained rice, on the other hand, is a little bit longer than the short type. When cooked the rice has a sticky texture and tend to be moister and softer as compared to long grained rice. Medium sized rice is ideal for preparing soup, paella and rice salads.
Long grained rice is three to four times longer than its width. When cooked, the rice usually has a slight, separate and fluffy because it's high in starch content. Long grained rice will take more time to prepare than short and medium types.
The long-grained type makes it great for various dishes like casserole and pilafs.
Texture
When cooked, brown rice has a unique texture. Though this may not be a great feature most people pay attention to, it is recommended to take it into account if you are purchasing the rice for children, old person or individuals with dental complications.
Softer textured rice makes it an excellent pick for small kids.
Ease of cooking
To get the desired results, you will have to follow the cooking instructions as per the manufacturer. Choosing a hard- -to-cook rice will always give you poor results, and you may end up disappointing your family and friends with a poorly prepared dish.
Quantity
Different manufacturers pack their rice in different quantities. Most people purchase brown rice brands without considering the quantity they are buying. Since brown rice has less shelf life than white rice, small families should be careful about the quantity they buy.
Versatility
While you can prepare different types of dishes with brown rice, not every brand will allow you to achieve all this. To avoid any disappointments, you should consider the versatility of your preferred brand in regards to which dishes you can prepare with your preferred brand.
For instance, if you love Indian cuisine, Jasmine and basmati brown rice are great picks for you due to their aromatic and nutty flavor.
Nutritional content
Each brown rice brand has nutritional content. However, the dietary levels vary from brand to brand. The choice of the brand you choose should be high on the nutritional content you are looking forward to adding to your diet.
For instance, if you are looking forward to adding bodybuilding nutrients to your diet, you should consider buying rice with high protein levels. To supply your body with high protein content, consider pairing your rice with other foods high in protein like beans.
If you are hunting for the best brand for managing certain conditions, ensure the product you select is recommended or used for the same purpose you are buying it for.
Packaging
Most people pay more attention to the rice quality that they forget to look at how it has been packaged. Though manufacturers have made efforts to ensure the rice has been well wrapped, not all of these packaging products are of the right quality.
Just in case you were to choose a rice brand which has been packaged in a jar, ensure it is food grade and BPA free. For packaging bags, ensure they are completely sealed.
Ease of storage
Unlike white rice, brown rice has a short lifespan and requires proper storage. Most manufacturers recommend refrigerating your rice to help prevent it from going bad.
What is the Best Brown Rice Brand for weight loss?
It is evident that brown rice is a good source of dietary fiber which helps maintain weight. However, the fiber levels do differ. This has left many people wondering which could be the best brown rice brand for weight loss. But to be honest any brown rice brand can be used to maintain weight.
The only difference is how you consume your rice. To help you lose some pounds, we have compiled a list of tips you can implement. Just take a look
- Reduce the starch levels by ensuring that you wash your rice three to four times before cooking. When cooking, please make sure you also boil it with high water levels.
- Consider eating steamed or boiled rice rather than a fried one
- When cooking your rice, please make it a weight loss dish by add other fiber vegetables to the recipe
- Soak your rice overnight for about 25 to 30 minutes to make the bran layer smooth
How to store brown rice
Though brown rice has massive benefits as compared to white rice, its lifespan is shorter which requires you to shop smartly to ensure you don’t end up wasting money. Typically, brown rice will last for three to six months before going rancid. However, you can increase the lifespan of your brown rice by practicing better storage techniques. So before we take you through the best brown rice storage tips, let’s have a look at why brown rice does not last long.
What makes brown rice rancid?
Since brown rice is not subjected into the same milling process as white rice, the germ and bran are still attached to the grain. This makes the rice to have high oil content and unsaturated fats and though they are healthy, they tend to go rancid fast. This calls for vigilance and better storage of your rice.
If you may be looking forward to reducing the chances of your rice going rancid, here are tips you can take advantage of, and among them include:
Shop in a smart way
When shopping most people forget that the rice has been sitting in the store for some time and end up buying in bulk for the sake of saving some dollars. One of the best ways to reduce any wastage is to ensure you shop enough depending on your family size and consumption levels. Even if you eat brown rice daily, try to calculate how much you will need for say like a month or some few weeks for those who do not have refrigerators.
Keep off your pantry
Brown rice is recommended to be stored inside a tight, clean container in a dry, cool dark place. Though your pantry maybe dark, temperatures in your kitchen keeps on changing making it a no storage place for your high fat grains.
Make use of your refrigerator
Due to its dark interior and cold temperatures inside, the fridge makes it a great storage pick for your brown rice and any high oil grains. You can store your rice from 6 to 16 months. However, due to frequent opening of your fridge which allows light, it is highly recommended to use either food saver bags, canned jars, or sealable freezer bags.
Freeze your rice
In case you have a freezer, you can make good use by storing your rice. For best results, divide your rice into small portions (daily consumption quantity recommended) and store in small freezer bags. This will give you convenience each time you wish to prepare your rice.
NB: Note that as much as the above-discussed tips will help you reduce any chances of your rice from being rancid, failure to follow the rules will result to poor results. Some people may store their rice and still become rancid. Ensure you have used the right storage materials to minimize any wastage.
Rancid rice is known to have low nutritional value. And like any other type of food, consuming stale rice can cause digestive complications. Frequent consumption of contaminated food has also been linked with cardiovascular diseases, inflammatory complications, and certain cancers.
To minimize any chances of developing such complications, always remember to check your rice for any rancidity signs. Although some people may have challenges noticing the smell or strange taste, there are other ways of knowing whether your rice has gone rancid.
How to know if your rice is rancid
- Our noses are very sensitive to smell, and the moment you open your packed rice, you will notice an unfamiliar odor of acidity. This is a good sign that your rice is rancid.
- By looking at your rice, you can tell when it’s not fit for consumption. Fresh brown rice usually has this fresh shiny surface. Any other look is a sure sign your rice has gone bad.
- By touching the rice grain, you can quickly know if it’s fit for consumption. If you touch your rice and it feels oily and dusty it high time you bin it.
FAQ
How do you prevent weevils from contaminating the rice?
Although rice weevils are harmless, they might cause the rice to have a different texture and lower nutritional values. If the rice comes in a bag, the first thing you should do is transfer the grains of rice to an airtight container or jar and place it in a cool, dry place. It is best if you do not store the rice for too long.
What should I do if the rice is taking forever to cook?
Your rice may take a long time to cook if the lid is not tightly sealed throughout the cooking process. It is best if you use a non-vented lid while cooking rice.
How do I prevent the rice from sticking together?
Adding less water will result in rice sticking together. You should always wet the rice grains in water and drain them well before cooking them on the stovetop or in the rice cooker. It is best if you follow the cooking instructions that the rice grains come with.
How do you store leftover rice?
Once the rice has cooled down completely, you can transfer them to a container and leave it in the refrigerator. Make sure to consume it within 24 hours as the nutritional value may fall.
Great information! Wonderful job. Keep up the great work. Tku