In the News -
November 2007
Put nutritious Arkansas rice on the table
MURFREESBORO, Ark. - When you buy Arkansas rice, you’re not only helping to
keep the state in the No. 1 spot as the nation’s largest rice producer, but also
putting a nutritious food on the table, according to Robbie McKinnon, a family
and consumer science agent for the Pike County office of the University of
Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service.
"People who eat rice enjoy a highly nutritious diet that’s higher in 12
essential vitamins and minerals, including folic acid, potassium and vitamin C
and lower in saturated fat and added sugar, than the diets of non-rice eaters,"
McKinnon said.
She said that finding was part of a new study presented at the American
Dietetic Association Food and Nutrition Conference and Expo 2007 in
Philadelphia.
The study also shows that rice eaters have a lower risk of high blood
pressure and of being overweight, and may have a reduced risk of heart disease,
Type II diabetes and metabolic syndrome, McKinnon said.
She said rice consumption was part of a healthier diet that lowered blood
pressure and waist size for all age groups.
Fortunately, she noted, rice is super easy to cook.
Start by rinsing the rice until the water runs clear. For every cup of rice
that you’re cooking, add 1 and one-half cups water. Bring the rice to a boil,
uncovered, at medium heat. When boiling, turn the heat down to medium low. Place
the lid on the pot, keeping it tilted to allow steam to escape. When you can see
holes or craters in the rice, put the lid on tight. Turn the heat to low and
simmer for another 15 minutes. Fluff up the rice and serve.
For best results, use long grain rice. If you want your rice extra fluffy,
try soaking it in cold water for about 30 to 60 minutes prior to cooking. Be
sure to rinse the rice until the water runs clear so that the rice won’t be
sticky because of too much starch. Always choose a saucepan with a very heavy
bottom.
Remember that older rice can lose some of its moisture, requiring more water
and a longer cooking time than fresh rice. Pay attention to how long you keep
rice in the cupboard. Leftover rice will keep for days, and it’s perfect for
making fried rice.
For more information about rice and nutrition, contact your county extension
agent or visit www.uaex.edu
and select Health and Nutrition, then Nutrition. The Cooperative Extension
Service is part of the U of A Division of Agriculture.
November 2, 2007
Media Contact: Lamar James
Extension Communications Specialist
U of A Division of Agriculture
Cooperative Extension Service
(501) 671-2187 or (501) 753-0207
ljames@uaex.edu
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