Rebecca Gordon’s Cooking Class
Cooking Skills
Lesson No. 4
Rice
The Objective: Today’s lesson focuses on rice & the valuable role it plays in a variety of cooking applications ranging from savory main dish dinner solutions to side dishes. You may have recently picked up a variety of rice styles from the market without knowing the differences compared to traditional selections. Learn about a few of the most common choices available.
The Overview
Rice plays a vital role in day to day meal solutions. Just a bit of salt & butter is all that is needed to season simple long grain rice but toasted nuts such as almonds, pecans & walnuts elevate beautifully. Toss in dried fruits such as cherries & cranberries or fresh herbs ranging from chopped parsley, thyme or cilantro & the humble dish becomes something to relish.
The Profile
All rice varieties cook a little differently. When preparing long grain white rice, reference the general 123 rule: 1 cup of dry long grain white rice to 2 cups of water will yield 3 cups of cooked rice. One important note to point out is that the lid should not be lifted during the cooking process or you will loose the valuable steam needed to hydrate the grains. Once cooked, the grains should absorb all of the liquid & separate when fluffed with a fork. The overall texture should be plump making it the ideal rice to accompany with a variety of foods.
Long Grain White
Rice is classified into long grain, medium & short grain varieties. Depending on which type of rice you choose to cook will determine the texture & best application for that particular variety. Long grain white rice has traditionally been the most popular type of rice consumers choose to cook with as it can be used in several recipe applications that yield quality meal solutions.
Whole Grain Brown
Brown rice is comprised of the bran, the germ & the endosperm of the grain kernel making it a highly nutritional choice. It provides a good source of fiber which will keep you feeling full longer compared to white rice. The shelf life of brown rice is shorter than that of traditional varieties, about 6 months. it also needs a longer cooking time & just a bit of additional liquid in order for the grain to properly plump. First, rinse the rice in a fine wire mesh colander. Bring 2 1/2 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil in a 3-quart saucepan with 1/2 tsp kosher salt. Add 1 cup of rice, bring the mixture back to a boil, add the lid then reduce the temperature to a Low simmer & cook 45 minutes or until the water has absorbed & the rice is plump.
Basmati
Basmati rice, with origins from India & Pakistan, is a long grain, fragrant rice with nutty, floral notes that may be used for a variety of meal solutions. It may be substituted where long grain white rice & jasmine are called for in recipes.
Jasmine
Jasmine rice, with origins from Thailand, is a long grain variety that has a sweet, nutty aroma. It’s wonderful when cooked in coconut milk or chicken broth adding instant flavor with minimal effort. Jasmine rice may be used interchangeably with long grain white rice & basmati rice.
Wild
Wild rice is a grass grown in wet regions that is harvested in August & September. The green seeds are collected, cured & dried in their own hull using a method that imparts the signature nutty flavor of the wild rice. Since the crop yields are much lower to comparable foods, it is often times blended & served with other grains.
A Special Note
Buttermilk Lipstick is filled with a wealth of culinary & entertaining knowledge, comprehensive information & photos that guide you through each step of the process & recipes tested in a home kitchen setting just like yours by a food professional with over 20 years of experience & expertise. Whether you have questions regarding how to cook long grain rice, roast a whole chicken or bake a batch of croissants, just know I’m here to guide you through the process. I cook, bake & consume everything you’ll find here. I want this to be an interactive e-learning experience, so please leave your questions or comments below or on my facebook page so that I may respond to your needs & so we may discuss topics together.
FROM THE KITCHEN OF BUTTERMILK LIPSTICK
{helpful advice}
How To Use Rice Everyday
Rice can stand alone or serve as a carrier for many well seasoned foods such as gravy, peas & beans. When merging flavors & foods, be certain to taste the combinations together before adding additional salt. Although whole grain brown rice has become increasingly popular due to the natural health benefits, white rice features a straightforward cooking method that essentially steams the grains quickly with minimal effort.
15 Ways To Cook With Rice Everyday
The shelf life of rice is relatively generous depending on the type. Unopened bags of long grain white rice may be stored in a cool, dry place up to 2 years. Once cooked, refrigerate any that remains up to 6 days.
The Meal & Side Dish Applications
Rice can certainly fill a variety of needs beyond traditional meal solutions. For Easter celebrations, a few simple additions will transform it into a wonderful rice pilaf side dish. Rice may also be seasoned, formed into cakes & fried for delicious, crisp appetizers or used to make desserts. Rice may be used as a substitution to other pastas & grains in soups & salads, too so feel confident to make exchanges as necessary.
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No. 4
Rebecca Gordon’s Cooking Class Lessons
The Gift Of Culinary Skills & Knowledge
Lesson No. 1: The Appendix
The Tune
“With You Anywhere You Are” Doris Day
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