Avoiding Rice? Try These 6 Grain Alternatives

Indian food is incomplete without rice, but even though we crave that side of steaming hot comfort, it may not be doing us all that much good. Rice has been a staple food for centuries and is consumed in almost every corner of the world. While it's a great source of carbohydrates, it can sometimes be over-consumed, leading to health complications like high blood sugar levels and weight gain. 

Reducing your rice intake can be beneficial to your health, and there are many delicious and healthy alternative grains to choose from. However, fear not! Many healthy alternative grains can replace rice without sacrificing taste or nutrition. Experiment with different grains and find the ones that work best for you and your taste buds.

Quinoa

This highly nutritious and versatile grain has been cultivated for thousands of years in the Andean regions of South America and has since become a worldwide phenomenon. It is known for its unique taste, delicate texture, and numerous health benefits. In addition to being a great source of protein, fibre, and essential nutrients like iron and magnesium, quinoa is also rich in antioxidants, which can help protect against chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease.

 ASIN ID - B087B5N5ZY   

Bulgar Wheat

Flying under the radar, this low-fat, whole grain is made from cracked wheat and has a slightly nutty flavour and a chewy texture. It's an excellent source of fibre and protein, making it an ideal substitute for rice in many dishes. Bulgur is a staple ingredient in Middle Eastern cuisine and can be used in salads, pilafs, and stuffing. It's also a great source of vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and zinc. Bulgur is easy to cook and only takes about 20 minutes to prepare. It's a great grain to add to your diet if you're looking for a healthy, nutritious alternative to rice.

 ASIN ID - B09N3L9K2M   

Barley

This ancient grain has been used in culinary applications for thousands of years. It has a nutty flavour and a chewy texture that makes it a great substitute for rice in soups and stews. Barley is high in fibre, making it a good choice for those looking to improve their digestion and regulate blood sugar levels. It's also an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B, iron, and magnesium. Barley is easy to cook, and its versatility makes it an excellent addition to many dishes.

 ASIN ID - B08RZPFBKV   

Millet

Millet is a gluten-free grain that's been consumed for thousands of years. It has a slightly sweet flavour and a fluffy texture that makes it a great alternative to rice in breakfast porridge, casseroles, and pilafs. Millet is high in protein and fibre, making it an excellent choice for those looking to improve their digestion and reduce inflammation. It's also a good source of vitamins and minerals like magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc. Millet is easy to cook and can be prepared in a variety of ways, making it a great addition to any diet.

 ASIN ID - B07CVXGQN4   

Couscous

Couscous is a type of grain (but often erroneously called pasta) made from crushed durum wheat semolina that's commonly used in North African and Middle Eastern cuisine. It has a mild flavour and a light, fluffy texture that makes it a great substitute for rice in salads, stews, and side dishes. Couscous is a good source of fibre and protein, and it's low in fat, making it a healthy choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. It's also quick and easy to cook, making it a great choice for busy weeknights.

 ASIN ID - B09BQMXF96   

Buckwheat

Despite its name, buckwheat is not a type of wheat, but a seed that's related to rhubarb and sorrel. It's a gluten-free, nutrient-rich grain that's been used in many cuisines around the world. Buckwheat has a slightly nutty flavour and a soft, tender texture that makes it an excellent substitute for rice in salads, soups, and porridge. It's high in protein, fibre, and essential vitamins and minerals like magnesium, phosphorus, and manganese.

 ASIN ID - B07ZG3JFF1