September is National Rice Month, which means it’s the perfect time to explore the world of rice. With over 40,000 varieties growing just about everywhere on the planet, we have 30 days to dive into this incredible grain. Rice has been around for about 130 million years, originating in Southeast Asia. You may be surprised to learn that rice is the second most-grown grain in the world, right after corn. Here in the U.S., about 85% of the rice we eat is grown in states like Arkansas, California, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, and Texas.
As a complex carb that’s low in fat, rice is a healthy choice for your diet. Luckily, we have plenty of variety to choose from, but there are four main rice groups. White rice is the most common but has the fewest nutrients. Brown rice is full of thiamine, iron, and zinc, giving it a chewy texture. Black rice has a nutty, earthy taste and is great for diabetics thanks to its low glycemic index. Red rice, similar to black, is rich in antioxidants, which give it a deep red color. Each of these has its unique flavor profile, ensuring a rice variety to complement just about any dish you can think of.
The Best Way to Celebrate National Rice Month
By eating, of course! Whip up some jambalaya, fried rice, or rice pudding, and take your taste buds on an adventure! When you’re out shopping, check out the different varieties and experiment with mixing and matching to create your own culinary masterpiece. You can also try one of the unique recipes at Zojirushi, including Chesapeake Crab Carrot Rice or this Jasmine Rice with Tofu, Broccoli, and Edamame.
The people at Zojirushi say, “For a health boost, try using a rice cooker with a GABA setting to unlock even more benefits from brown rice. This nifty feature “activates” the rice, increasing the natural gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels, which can help lower blood pressure, improve kidney function, and relieve stress.” The process is simple: soak the rice at 104°F for two hours before cooking, and you’re set! With its versatility and endless possibilities, rice is a staple in kitchens everywhere.
