Main image via Shutterstock
Fact: Malaysians love rice. But we don’t know much about what we’re eating, and often take it for granted when we go to the restaurant to order fried rice or just plain old nasi putih. And when it comes to cooking rice at home, most of us don’t really know what’s what.
The most popular types of rice consumed in Malaysia are white, fragrant, basmati, and brown rice varieties. We’re here to break down their benefits, and what kind of dishes you can make with them.
#1 Fragrant rice
Image via Shutterstock
Many people have a misconception that fragrant rice contributes to high blood sugar levels. But what it does is regulate them. The vitamins and minerals contained in fragrant rice is also beneficial for the skin, boosts your energy, and is low fat.
It is best for: Chicken rice and eaten with seafood
You can try these: Jasmine Sunwhite and Royal Siam
#2 White rice
Image via www.snapguide.com
White rice is consumed the most by Malaysians. Rich in minerals such as calcium and iron, white rice promotes healthy red blood cells and improve metabolism. For those of you want to gain weight (in a healthy way) and need an alternative to oily foods, then this is for you!
It is best for: Nasi lemak, fried rice and banana leaf rice, oriental fried rice
You can try this: Jasmine Super5
#3 Brown rice
A healthier choice compared to white rice, brown rice contains a higher amount of nutrients such as fibre, vitamins B1, B3, B6, iron, phosphorus and potassium. Brown rice tend to be harder because there is much less polishing of the rice grain where a lot of nutrients are located. When you combine it with a healthy diet, brown rice will have a positive impact on your body. For instance, it prevents and manages chronic diseases.
It is best for: Cook the rice as it is! It pairs well with all types of cuisine
You can try this: Jasmine SunBrown Original Brown Rice
#4 Basmati rice
Image via Shutterstock
Compared to other types of rice, basmati rice has its own special features; it is extra long, has a different aroma, and has a corn-like flavour. Did you know that to obtain this flavour, they must be preserved for some time, usually up to a year?
The best basmati rice is grown in the foothills of the Himalayas, where the rich soil and cool, clean waters from the mountains ensure high quality crops. Basmati rice is healthy because it is low in glycaemic index (GI) and high in various minerals and vitamins. It is good for the cardiovascular system and can lower your blood pressure.
It is best for: Biryani, nasi kandar, or eaten as it is with spicy cuisines such as curry dishes
You can try these: Royal PusaGold, PusaGold, Basmathi King, PusaCream
Celebrate your rice at 1 Utama!
Now that you know more about the rice that you’ve been eating, come and celebrate Rice Day with Jasmine Food and Tefal from now until 21 October.
They’ll be promoting healthier cooking and eating, along with amazing deals for rice lovers. There are also plenty of activities such as appearances by celebrity chefs including Dato’ Jaafar Onn and Ili Sulaiman, cooking demonstration, nutrition talk, and lucky draws!
For more information, click here.