Some people may think white rice is as boring as it looks. But hidden away in the back of your pantry is an important staple for many cultures. In fact, people started eating rice as early as 2500 B.C. It was even added to the mortar used to hold together the Great Wall of China! White rice is often associated with Asian cultures; however, it is also an important part of American diets. The majority of the white rice eaten in the U.S. is grown in six states (Arkansas, California, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri and Texas).
A Vitamin-Rich Staple
White rice is a gluten-free grain low in fiber and fat; one serving contains over 15 vitamins and minerals such as magnesium, selenium, thiamine, niacin, folic acid and iron.
Nutrition facts per 1 cup of cooked, enriched, short-grain rice:
Calories 242
Fat 0.4 grams
Sodium 0
Fiber 0.6 grams
Protein 4.4 grams
How to cook white rice
Most rice is cooked with a two-part-liquid to one-part-rice ratio. Check the label for cooking instructions. One cup of raw uncooked rice yields 3 to 4 cups of cooked rice.
Since rice adapts to seasonings very well, it is a perfect side dish. It can also be added to sweet and savory dishes to complete grain bowls, soups, stews, stir fries, chili, salads and pudding.
Storing White Rice
White rice has a shelf life of 10 years or more if stored in an airtight container in a dry, cool (70 degrees F or below) place. However, don’t confuse white rice with brown rice, which only has a 3- to 6-month shelf life. Cooked white rice should be used within a few days and stored in the refrigerator.
Find kidney-friendly recipes to make with white rice
Davita.com has hundreds of kidney-friendly recipes for main dishes that would be great with white rice. Log in to your myDavita account, or sign up for free, to save all your favorite recipes in one place.
References
https://www.verywellfit.com/rice-nutrition-facts-calories-and-health-benefits
https://www.health.com/nutrition/is-white-rice-healthy
https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-rice
https://www.foodandwine.com/news/7-things-you-never-knew-about-rice
