Rice, especially brown rice, is a nutritious and inexpensive complex carbohydrate. Rice is low in calories, fat free, gluten free, sodium free, non-allergenic and easily digested.
You can use rice as a side-dish, in casseroles, soups and even desserts. I found some new recipes here. Whether you use long cook or instant rice, the nutritional value of rice is a bargain in itself.
I am sure you have seen those packages of pre-cooked frozen rice available in the freezer section of most grocery stores. Did you know, that you can freeze rice, too? While you are making one batch of rice, why not make a few more batches, freeze the leftovers and have it ready to go for your next meal. The rice you freeze at home will be much more cost effective than the bags you find in the store, which can cost anywhere from $3 to $6 per pound.
To freeze rice, I make the amount I desire according to package directions. I remove the rice from the heat 5 minutes before it normal cooking time. ( If the directions call for 40 minutes, I only cook for 35 minutes). When you reheat the rice for its next use, it will finish cooking.
Let the rice cool to room temperature for approximately 30 minutes. Measure the rice in 1 to 1.5 cups portions in a quart size freezer bag. Lay the bag flat on hard surface and squeeze out any remaining air.
Place the bags in the freezer, storing flat or one its side.
When ready to use, remove bag from freezer, unzip the bag approximately 1/4 inch so the steam can escape. Microwave on high for 3 to 5 minutes, depending on your microwave wattage. I like to lay mine on a small glass dish or plate. The bag will puff out and up. Let the bag sit for 1 to 2 minutes, then use as desired.
Plain Graces says
Just found you on a blog hop and I really love this idea. My family enjoys rice, but sometimes I don't have the time to babysit it. Thanks for the idea!
Every Day Products & More says
hello following you from the hop
http://everydayproductsandmore.blogspot.com/
Karla says
Joining you from the Wednesday Blog Hop! http://teched4kids.com
DeDa Studios says
Blog hopping! Stop by for a visit! We are part of a HUGE Mother's Day Blog Giveaway! Over 90 blogs are giving away fantastic prize packages just for MOM! Starts tomorrow May 5th! http://dedastudios.blogspot.com
Sharlene says
Thank you for this great suggestion, I'm going to try it after my next shopping trip!!!
Sharlene
[email protected]
Yes I Have A Coupon! says
Thanks for stopping by for the Thursday Blog Hop. I am following you back. Hope you have a great Thursday.
Pam says
Thanks for sharing this tip. I need to do this myself but had never thought of it before.
Also returning your follow from the hop, plus twitter & facebook.
Mariah says
Thanks for the recipes! I love rice and have it 3-4 times a week!
I'm "stalking" you from the Super Stalker Sunday hop! Hope you'll participate again this weekend!
Mariah, Formula Mom
Heather says
Hi. I am now following you via GFC & Facebook. I found you on yhe hop. I would love if you would stop by and check out my newest blog post about the Alabama Tornado Disaster that happened in my home town. Learn how we can all help by giving back. PLEASE check this out at http://pricecrusher.blogspot.com
Thanks!
God Bless!
Heather H.
The Price Crusher
Nancy StylenDecorDeals says
Great tip! I never thought to do this!
Visiting from the blog hop! I follow on GFC, but now I'm following on Net Blogs! Hope you'll hop by and visit my blog too!
http://stylendecordeals.blogspot.com/