Distinctive features of jasmine rice and what it is used for
Jasmine rice has long been used to prepare a variety of dishes in many cuisines around the world. This unique cereal with an indescribable milky flavor and aroma of jasmine flowers can turn any dish into a real gastronomic masterpiece. We will tell you about what Thai jasmine rice is and how to cook it better in the article.
The content of the article
Description of the variety
Rice Jasmine (jasmine) - one of the types of long-grain varieties that are grown only in Thailand... Surprisingly, attempts to cultivate the cereal in other countries ended in failure due to the impossibility of achieving that very unique taste and aroma. The whole secret lies in the peculiarities of the Thai soil. It is sandy and quite salty.
White grains, slightly transparent (see photo). They have a narrow oblong shape and a delicate milky aroma. During cooking in water, they stick a little, but do not lose their shape.
Reference. Rice got its name due to its similarity to white jasmine petals. The most expensive varieties have a bright floral aroma.
Composition and calorie content
Jasmine rice belongs to the class of complex carbohydrates and guarantees long-term satiety... Does not provoke sharp jumps in insulin in the blood, compared to fast carbohydrates, which awaken the appetite in a short period of time. It is a hypoallergenic product, gluten and gluten free. Ideal for diet food.
The chemical composition of the cereal:
- vitamins B1, B2, B4, B5, B6, B9;
- vitamin E;
- vitamin K;
- vitamin PP;
- iron;
- calcium;
- magnesium;
- zinc;
- selenium;
- phosphorus;
- manganese;
- sodium;
- iodine.
Nutrients:
- proteins - 7.2 g;
- fats - 0.4 g;
- carbohydrates - 79 g.
The nutritional value:
- water - 11.62 g;
- ash - 0.64 g;
- fiber - 1.3 g;
- saturated fatty acids - 0.18 g;
- mono- and disaccharides - 0.12 g
Caloric content of the product is 338 kcal per 100 g.
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Benefit and harm
Polished grains are steamed to preserve nutrients. Due to its rich chemical composition cereal has a positive effect on various body systems:
- cardiovascular;
- digestive;
- endocrine;
- nervous.
Fiber in the product helps to improve intestinal contractility, helps to cleanse the digestive tract, reduces the risk of oncology.
Rice porridge is useful for heavy metal poisoning... It can be given to children as it is gluten free.
Despite all the usefulness, the cereal can also have a negative effect. on human health. Nutritionists do not recommend getting carried away with jasmine rice during weight loss due to its high calorie content. In addition, the product can cause constipation if consumed excessively.
Cereal meals should be limited to people with diabetes... The product has a rather high glycemic index - 70. Exceeding the daily norm leads to sharp surges in blood glucose.
How to Pick Good Rice
When choosing cereals pay attention to appearance, smell and cost.
A quality product has the following characteristics:
- grains are even, oblong, with a smooth surface, without cracks and spots;
- aroma is pronounced, you can feel it even through the packaging.
Pay attention to the expiration date and processing methods of the cereal... The manufacturer indicates this information on the packs.
Reference. The more expensive rice is, the higher its quality.
How to prepare and serve
Thai chefs with extensive experience in jasmine rice making, insist that the grains should not come into contact with water. They tie rice in muslin cloth and cook in a special steamer.
Reference. Muslin is a thin and at the same time durable natural fabric that allows air to pass through.
How to cook Jasmine at home so as not to turn it into a gooey mass? In fact, everything is quite simple. To do this, you can use a regular stove, oven or multicooker.
For cooking in a saucepan, the rice is washed under the tap until clear water and shake. The ideal ratio of rice to water is 1: 2. For example, 100 g of product will require 200 g of salted water.
The pan is placed on high heat and, after boiling, it is reduced to a minimum.... Cook for 10-15 minutes and turn off. Wrap up with a tea towel and leave for another 10 minutes. During this time, the rice will completely absorb moisture. Properly cooked rice does not lose its shape.
For cooking in the oven, take the same ratio of products as for cooking on the stove... Pre-washed rice is placed in a heat-resistant container, poured with water and sent to the oven for 30 minutes at a temperature of 160 ° C. The dish can be considered ready after the moisture has completely evaporated.
Cooking jasmine rice in a slow cooker as easy as pie. The groats are washed in several waters, poured into a bowl and cold water is poured in a ratio of 1: 1.5. Salt to taste and select the "Pilaf" or "Rice" mode (the functionality depends on the model of equipment and the manufacturer). Cooking time 30 minutes.
What is cereal used for? Jasmine rice is served as a side dish for meat, fish, filling of open and closed pies, used to prepare desserts... The grains instantly absorb a variety of hot, sweet and sour and sweet sauces. The product goes well with herbs and spices, fruits and vegetables. In Thailand, rice dishes based on coconut milk are especially popular.
Take note of a few recipes dishes with this wonderful cereal.
Rice with shrimps and arugula
Ingredients:
- rice vinegar - 80 ml;
- Jasmine rice - 400 g;
- cane sugar - 45 g;
- fresh arugula - 100 g;
- sesame oil - 45 ml;
- head of garlic;
- lemon - 2 pcs.;
- defrosted or fresh shrimps - 400 g;
- fish sauce - 2 tbsp. l.
Preparation... Boil the rice until half cooked. Heat oil in a deep skillet and fry finely chopped garlic in it. Pour in lemon juice, vinegar, fish sauce and sugar. Bring the liquid to a boil, toss in the shrimp, arugula and carefully place the rice. Everything is being prepared very quickly. Stir the food, cover the skillet with a lid and remove from heat. Let it brew for five minutes and serve.
Rice with cashews and dried fruits
Ingredients:
- Jasmine rice - 200 g;
- cashew nuts - 70 g;
- dried apricots - 70 g;
- raisins - 70 g;
- a bunch of mint;
- unrefined coconut oil - 50 ml.
Preparation... Boil the cereal until tender. Lightly fry the nuts in oil, add dried fruits and simmer a little. Add rice, mix gently and fry over medium heat for 10 minutes. Add finely chopped mint two minutes before cooking.
How to store
Packaged raw jasmine rice stored in a dry, dark place about six months. Seeds that have turned yellow, covered with dark spots and have lost their characteristic aroma indicate that it is time to throw the product away.
The finished product is stored in the refrigerator. - 3-4 days in a container with a sealed lid.
About other cereals:
Conclusion
Jasmine rice is a versatile and healthy cereal, the taste of which has been appreciated far beyond the borders of the country of growth. The product is good as an independent dish, as a side dish for meat, fish and seafood. Its milky taste and light floral aroma make it an ideal base for desserts.With proper and normalized use, the body receives minerals and vitamins in sufficient quantities without harm to health.