Ingredients:
- 1 cup brown rice
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth (for added flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for added flavor)
Instructions:
Rinse the Rice:
Place the brown rice in a fine mesh strainer and rinse it under cold water for about 30 seconds. This helps remove any excess starch and debris.
Soak the Rice (optional):
Soaking brown rice for a few hours or overnight can help reduce cooking time and improve its digestibility. If you have time, soak the rice in water for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
Prepare the Cooking Liquid:
In a medium-sized saucepan, bring the water or vegetable broth to a boil. If desired, add salt and olive oil to the liquid for added flavor.
Add the Rice:
Once the liquid is boiling, add the rinsed and drained brown rice to the saucepan. Stir briefly to ensure the rice is evenly distributed in the liquid.
Reduce Heat and Simmer:
Reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid. Allow the rice to simmer gently for about 40-45 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Let it Rest:
Once the rice is cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5-10 minutes. This allows the rice to steam and become fluffy.
Fluff and Serve:
After resting, uncover the saucepan and fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains. Serve the healthy brown rice as a side dish or as a base for your favorite meals.
Notes:
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- Brown rice can be substituted with other healthy grains such as quinoa, barley, or farro for variation.
- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding herbs, spices, or vegetables to the cooking liquid for additional flavor and nutrition.
- Leftover cooked brown rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for longer storage. Simply reheat before serving.
