Rice is a staple in many cultures around the world. It’s an incredibly versatile grain, packed with dietary fibre and energy. why is rice gluten free ?
Rice, like all grains, contains gluten, a protein which can be hazardous for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. That’s why it’s essential to know how to cook and prepare rice safely if you have these conditions.
Glutinous rice
Glutinous rice is a type of grain that cooks to a sticky consistency when cooked. This variety of rice is often featured in Asian desserts.
Glutinous rice, unlike regular white rice, does not contain gluten and is suitable for those with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity. Furthermore, it can assist those attempting to shed pounds by providing a fibre-rich meal that’s low in fat and calories.
Glutinous rice is packed with essential vitamins B and D, potassium and phosphorus that promote good health. Furthermore, glutinous rice may reduce the risk of chronic illnesses by combatting oxidative stress and inflammation.
Glutinous rice is widely available around the world and can be bought at local grocery stores. It can be used in recipes donuts, among others.
Whole grain rice
Whole grain rice is an ideal gluten free food option that’s also an ideal choice for those looking to increase their whole grains intake. Brown rice in particular, is high in dietary fibre which has been linked to improved control of blood sugar, weight loss and heart health.
All grains contain three edible parts: bran (the outer skin), germ (which contains essential nutrients), and endosperm (starchy carbohydrate that provides energy). When grains are refined, their bran and germ layers are removed, leaving only the endosperm remaining.
Therefore, it can be more challenging to reap all the nutritional benefits from whole grain rice, so it is important to select your grains wisely.
Lundberg Family Farms produces certified gluten free plain, long-grain, and flavoured rice varieties; Alter Eco offers gluten free heirloom varietals such as Red Rice and Thai Sticky Purple Rice that are all grown without the risk of cross-contamination during production or cooking – making them a great option for anyone looking to add more whole grain foods into their diets.
Cooked rice
Rice is a nutrient-rich grain and an important food staple in many cultures. It’s high in starch, a type of carbohydrate which provides your body with energy.
Rice of all natural forms – white, brown and wild – is gluten free. This makes it a great option for those with gluten sensitivity, allergies or celiac disease.
However, some flavoured rice mixes, instant rice mixes and other types of processed cooked rice may not be gluten-free. These may contain ingredients such as hydrolysed wheat protein, flavour enhancers like soy sauce and wheat-based thickeners.
When dining out, be sure to ask your waiter or chef which seasonings they use and how they’re prepared. If they use an unstilled vinegar, be wary as this could contain wheat germ.
Ready-to-eat rice
Rice is a staple food staple in more than 100 countries and has many uses. It contains starch, an energy-giving carbohydrate.
In the market place, there are various gluten-free rice products. These include whole grain and white rice, brown rice, and wild rice.
For convenience, instant or microwave ready rice can be purchased. These products provide quick preparation with limited time required and are ideal for those with hectic schedules and limited kitchen resources.
Conclusion
No matter which variety of rice you select, always check the ingredients list and label before purchasing. Some varieties are naturally gluten free while others may have been processed in a facility that may have contained gluten.