I was having my casual Daal Chawal and I suddenly thought that Yes, this is what my next blog is going to be about. So here it is. Let’s talk about another love of Pakistanis after chai: Rice. 

To read about Pakistanis and their affection for tea, CLICK HERE.

According to botany, rice is a type of water grass. Over 8,000 years have passed since it was first planted. Oryza sativa is the term given to rice in Latin. There are numerous types of rice.

In certain nations, rice is such a staple diet that “to eat” essentially means “to consume rice.” About 50% of the world’s population consumes rice as their primary source of calories. Many people would be hungry if there was no rice or no substitute for rice.

So before we talk about its benefits and nutritional importance, let’s get a view of how we love to have rice in our daily diet.

Pakistani Obsession with Rice

In Pakistan, a dinner table would not be complete without a sizable serving of rice. In Pakistan, whether it is boiled or combined with any spice available, People of Pakistan have an obsession with rice. Perhaps even more than cricket, and that’s saying a lot.

1. Biryani

Either it may bind people together or it can drive them apart.

No other dish causes as much conflict among Pakistanis as biryani, especially among the Lahoris & Karachites. How do you feel? Should aloo be included in biryani or not? (Let’s discuss it in the comments.)

But there is one element of Pakistani Culture that everybody can agree on: everyone adores biryani.

2. Pulao

The pulao is the gentle, laid-back sibling of the biryani.

The subtle flavours, the juicy, delicious meat, the shami kebab on the side, and the generous serving of raita are irresistible.

Despite the fact that it rarely receives the appreciation it deserves, You won’t find someone who doesn’t like pulao. 

3. Daal Chawal 

Everyone misses daal chawal when they can’t eat it; it is frequently disregarded and ignored. It may be taken for granted by you, but it will always have your back.

 Daal chawal is always an excellent alternative to have, regardless of whether you’re short on cash or you want something quick and simple. The ideal tasty meal would include it together with a shami kebab, some salad, and raita.

Some other popular dishes include Gur waly Chawal, Khichri, and Kheer. 

Benefits and Nutritional Importance 

There has always been a myth about rice that it might make you gain weight. Additionally, it has long been painted in a negative light. But is it really dangerous for your health?

NO is the answer! Even though rice is one of the rich sources of carbohydrates, it also contains 4 to 5 g of protein and nearly little fat per serving. In addition, it is a good antioxidant source and vitamin B.

Brown rice and White Rice 

The main distinction between brown & white rice is the way of their processing.  The brown rice kernels still have the bran layer. In the case of white rice, It has been polished away. sometimes white rice is fortified. The bran layer causes brown rice to be more nutrient-dense than white. Additionally, brown rice takes more time to cook because of the presence of the bran layer.  Brown rice has more nutrition. 

So Brown rice is always a wise choice.

1. After exercise, rice recovers glycogen reserves and provides energy

When refuelling after exercise, athletes frequently choose rice as their primary energy source. This is due to the fact that refined carbohydrates, like rice, are a quick and convenient supply of the carbohydrate needed to restore muscle glycogen after exercise.

2. Promotes Healthy Nervous System

Does your nervous system require assistance? The best help is rice!

The effective functioning of our neural systems depends on the utilisation of several B vitamins. Different B vitamin subtypes contribute to the synthesis of neurotransmitters. The neurotransmitters contribute to the control of biological functions.

A remarkable source of numerous B vitamins is rice. Eating rice can help you improve the wellness of your nervous system since it is so high in B vitamins.

3. Diabetes Management

Usually, diabetics may think that brown rice aids them in managing their blood sugar levels. White rice, which has a glycemic index of 64, is more likely to cause blood sugar levels to rise than brown rice, which has a glycemic index of 55.

 According to some research, consuming a lot of white rice raises your risk of developing diabetes. But this still requires a lot of evidence to be proven.

4. Heart Health

More fibre can be found in whole grains such as brown rice than in processed foods. The chance of stroke and heart disease can be decreased by fibre by lowering cholesterol. Fibre causes you to feel full, so it can be simpler for you to keep a healthy weight.

 Additionally, brown rice has minerals and vitamins that support the blood’s ability to carry oxygen and carry out other essential tasks.

5. Digestive Health

Brown rice’s insoluble fibre encourages regular bowel motions. Additionally, it can enhance bowel control and avoid haemorrhoids. 

Brown rice is a healthy meal option for persons with celiac disease because it is gluten-free. Those who suffer from celiac disease may have trouble getting all the nourishment they require because they are unable to digest specific grains.

Conclusion 

Throughout the world, rice is basic food. The most popular type of rice is white, however, brown rice can be healthier.

Brown rice has a number of beneficial minerals and antioxidants that may assist resist heart disease.

White rice,  on the other hand, offers fewer nutrients and may increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.