The Health Benefits of Matta Rice: Everything You Need to Know
If you haven’t heard of matta rice, you will definitely want to. This red parboiled rice, also known as Palakkadan matta, may offer some exciting health benefits. Plus, it adds a unique flavor to meals without any extra culinary skills required. Read on to learn all about matta rice and how it may benefit your health.
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What is matta rice?
Matta rice is a type of traditional short-grain rice that’s been grown and cultivated in the Indian states of Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka for centuries. This rice has a nutty, earthy taste and texture that is unique from traditional long-grain white or brown rice. And thanks to it’s rich, red color, it will turn any dish into a vibrant and flavorful meal.
The nutrient composition of matta rice
Matta rice is a rich source of essential vitamins and minerals. One cup of matta rice contains:
– Calories: 216
– Protein: 4g
– Fat: 1g
– Carbohydrates: 44g
– Fiber: 2.3g
– Vitamin B6: 13% RDV
– Vitamin E : 11% RDV
– Iron: 15% RDV
– Magnesium : 7% RDV
– Potassium : 5% RDV
Health benefits of matta rice
The health benefits of matta rice make it a great choice for those looking for an alternative to traditional long-grain white or brown rice. Matta rice is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and fiber – all essential for optimal body functioning.
Rich in antioxidants
Matta rice is unique to many other rice varieties in that it retains its outer layer of grain known as pericarp, which is often removed in other varieties of rice. This outer layer, however, is rich in fiber and beneficial nutrients. Recent studies have found matta rice to be rich in antioxidants which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals and further disease. For instance, one serving contains 11% of the daily value of vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage caused by oxidation, reducing inflammation in the body.
May help to lower cholesterol
When looking for ways to reduce cholesterol, rice may not always come to mind. But matta rice may be an easy way to help improve cholesterol levels when added to the diet on a regular basis. This rice contains linoleic acid, which may help to reduce bad (LDL) cholesterol and increase good (HDL) cholesterol. This rice is also a good source of dietary fiber. With 5g of fiber per 100g, including both soluble and insoluble fibers, it may help with cholesterol reduction along with appetite regulation and blood sugar balance.
May help to balance blood sugar
When you think about managing type 2 diabetes, you often are told to limit or avoid rice. But that isn’t the case with matta rice. This rice is a good choice for people with diabetes as it has a low glycemic index. This means that matta rice digests slowly, helping to keep blood sugar levels stable and reducing the risk of spikes in glucose levels. In addition, as a good source of fiber and magnesium, this rice helps to promote steady blood sugar levels throughout the day.
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Naturally gluten-free
If you need to limit or avoid gluten in your diet, it can be hard to meet your daily fiber needs. And that can be a problem when it comes to managing blood sugar levels and body weight. Matta rice, however, provides a great alternative since it is naturally gluten-free while still providing a good source of dietary fiber. You can incorporate matta into a variety of recipes or enjoy it as a side dish for a gluten-free alternative that will leave you full and satisfied.
How can you cook matta rice?
Matta rice can be cooked in the same way as regular white or brown rice. To get started, combine matta rice with two to three parts of water and bring to a boil before reducing the heat and simmering for twenty minutes. Once cooked, matta rice should be flaky and soft. Just keep in mind, however, this rice can stick together and become mushy if cooked incorrectly, so keep an eye on it as you get the hang of preparing it in your meals.
How can matta rice be incorporated into the diet?
Matta rice can be incorporated into the diet in many different ways. It can be cooked in the same way as regular white or brown rice, and served with a variety of dishes. Matta rice is also incredibly versatile and can be used to make a variety of dishes such as matta rice risotto, matta rice salads, matta rice pudding, matta fried rice and more! Try incorporating matta rice into your weekly diet to reap all these amazing benefits!
Is matta rice better than brown rice?
Both matta rice and brown rice are good sources of nutrition. However, matta rice has some added benefits that make it a better choice for those looking to boost their health through diet. Matta Rice is higher in antioxidants than brown rice while containing more fiber and vitamins. So if you’re looking for a nutritious alternative to brown rice, matta Rice may be the perfect choice for you.
Is red rice and matta rice the same?
No, matta rice and red rice are not the same. Red rice is an unpolished whole grain that still has its husk and bran layers intact, while matta rice is a polished variety of red rice. While they may look similar, matta rice contains more fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants than red rice – making it a better choice for those looking to boost their health through diet.
Looking for ways to enjoy matta rice? Give these recipes a try!
Watermelon Salad with Coconut Rice