The question today was in regards to Instant Brown Rice over regular due to the time constraint. As I began the button pushing, the first thing that came up was the nutritional facts for Uncle Bens Instant Brown rice. When I saw the sodium I was shocked! I would not personaly choose it based on that alone. In pushing more buttons for the brand in question, ShurFine Instant Brown rice, I found that nutrition label in comparison a little easier on the eyes. If I were the average consumer, I would eat ShurFine based on those two labels. The next question I can think of is, What are the nutritional deficiencies of instant? Instant brown rice is made by partly cooking the grains, then dehydrating them. This processing of the grains DOES reduce their nutritional value – but not by very much. Therefore, instant brown rice isn’t as healthy as ‘regular’ brown rice, but is still significantly better for your family than white rice. But there are other reasons to favor regular brown rice over instant – namely the better taste and texture. Instant brown rice can be quite ‘mushy’ when it’s prepared, whereas the regular grains are a little chewy when cooked, with a yummy, nutty flavor. You can lessen the cooking time by soaking ahead of time. It also makes it easier for the body to absorb the nutrients. Still, the many benefits of brown rice for the health aspect, really do make it worth the extra cooking time – and do remember that the preparation time is the same as for white rice, it’s just the simmering time that takes longer. I do tell people, I dont cook. The stove does that. I just put it together. So, if you have the time, go regular. If not, instant appears to be within healthy boundaries.
Posted on: Sat, 15 Nov 2014 20:11:49 +0000