Rice is a staple in many diets around the world, known for its versatility and ability to complement almost any dish. However, if you’re looking to make this beloved grain even healthier, there’s a simple cooking trick you can try. By making just one small change in how you prepare your rice, you can reduce its carbohydrate and calorie content and even give your gut health a boost!
The Magic Method: Cooking with Coconut Oil
The trick involves using coconut oil while cooking your rice. Adding coconut oil to the cooking water of rice can change the starch compositions in the rice, turning digestible starches into resistant starches. This transformation means that fewer calories are absorbed by the body and the impact on blood glucose levels is lessened.
How to Prepare Your Rice with Coconut Oil
Here’s how you can prepare your rice to maximize these benefits:
- Add Coconut Oil: For every cup of rice, stir in a teaspoon of coconut oil into your boiling water before adding the rice.
- Cook as Normal: Cook the rice according to your usual method, whether you’re using a stovetop, rice cooker, or microwave.
- Cool It Down: Once the rice is cooked, cool it down by placing it in the refrigerator for about 12 hours. This step is crucial as it solidifies the formation of resistant starch.
Health Benefits
- Lower Carbohydrate Absorption: The resistant starch formed through this method is not digested in the small intestine. Instead, it goes directly to the large intestine, which means that the body absorbs fewer carbohydrates.
- Reduced Calorie Intake: Because resistant starches are not digested, they contribute fewer calories.
- Gut Health: Resistant starch acts as a prebiotic, feeding the good bacteria in your gut. This can lead to better digestive health and a stronger gut microbiome.
Serving Suggestions
After your rice has cooled, you can reheat it before serving without losing the benefits of the resistant starch. This rice pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes, from stir-fries to curries, or even as a side with grilled vegetables or proteins.
To Conclude
By adding just a teaspoon of coconut oil to your rice cooking process, you can enjoy a dish that not only tastes great but also brings significant health benefits. This simple change can lead to a lower carbohydrate and calorie intake, and even aid in improving your digestive health. Give this method a try and make your next meal a healthier one!