Tips and ways to store rice at home
The methods of storing rice at home are very important to maintain the quality of this food. These simple methods differ for raw and cooked rice.
Housekeeping star - A misconception about rice is that it can be kept in the kitchen indefinitely or refrigerated for a few days after cooking, but that's not the case! Preserving rice requires following some principles and tips, and we will explain ways to preserve rice at home.
How to store raw rice
Did you know that if you do not store raw rice properly, its taste may change? To ensure that your rice does not lose its goodness and does not spoil after cooking, follow the raw rice storage methods below.
1. Gradual purchase of rice
Even in the cold temperatures of home storage, there is some moisture and heat. As you know, raw rice loses its quality in such conditions, so our recommendation is to buy rice for short-term use and avoid storing it.
2. Store the rice in the refrigerator
In hot and humid regions, raw rice can be stored in the refrigerator. For this purpose, containers must be used whose lids are completely closed, so that moisture does not enter them.
3. Low humidity
The lower the humidity of the rice storage environment, the better. Keeping raw rice in a proper container helps a lot in achieving this goal. Make sure to keep the bowl of rice in a cool, dark and dry environment so that this food will retain its freshness for a longer period of time.
4. Keep rice away from insects
Because rice is grown in the field, one concern with its long-term storage is pests. For short or long-term storage of rice, it must be exposed to air, because unlike other foods, rice needs some ventilation to prevent spoilage. Note that if you store your rice in closed, sealed containers, you have created a better breeding environment for pests and insects. Hot weather is the main cause of rice pests. If this food item is exposed to hot weather, it "sweats" and unwanted insects and pests begin to grow in its moist environment.
5. Rice storage container at home
Plastic food storage containers can help you a lot. These containers do not have very tight lids, so that sufficient air flows into them. However, if you do not have a rice storage container available, place an oxygen absorber inside the container. Some of these absorbents are for dry foods and others for wet foods, so be sure to use them for rice before purchasing.
How to store cooked rice
If possible, cook rice for one or two servings so that it does not need to be stored for more than a day, but if you have to cook rice in bulk, consider the following points:
1. A container suitable for storing cooked rice
Just like raw rice, cooked rice also needs a suitable container, but it should have minimal air penetration. Note that cooked rice cannot be stored for a long time outside the refrigerator.
2. Store it in the refrigerator
After cooking, the rice can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If the rice is reheated after this period, you can keep the rice in the refrigerator for another two days. However, note that after this period, the taste of the rice may change.
3. Store cooked rice in the freezer
After you cook the rice, wait for it to cool completely, then you can store it in the freezer for up to two months.
General tips for storing rice
1. Oxygen absorbers
Oxygen absorbents are small packets commonly found in food packaging. They increase the shelf life of food by preventing spoilage of the oil in the food and preventing fungal growth. These packets contain vitamin C or iron particles that absorb oxygen and react with it when it comes into contact with it. These materials will absorb any oxygen present, and it doesn't matter how small they are. That is why rice can be stored even at 21 degrees with this tool.
2. Disinfection and cleaning
Cleaning rice storage containers is very important. Normally, this food item can be stored in containers made of metal, glass, plastic, etc., but these containers must be absolutely clean. Stored rice absorbs a lot of oxygen, especially if it is stored in an airtight container with an oxygen absorber, so it is highly recommended to use a clean rice storage container. Even if you keep rice in excellent conditions, without following this principle, its quality will decline.
The reason for keeping rice at home
Rice is the staple food of Asians. This easy, high-energy meal is a healthier option than packaged or low-quality foods. The benefits of storing and consuming rice are as follows:
Raw rice can be stored for a relatively long time
It doubles in size when cooked
It is cooked easily
It does not contain cholesterol, sodium and fat
Hypoallergenic
rice longevity
Rice can be stored at home for up to two years under the right conditions. Brown rice does not last long and spoils faster than white rice. Brown rice can only be stored for a few years, but under the right conditions, white rice can be stored for up to 30 years.
The ideal temperature for storing rice is 4.5°C or less. Rice stays in this state for up to 25 or 30 years. It can also be stored at a temperature of 21 degrees, but in this case oxygen absorption is required. In addition, in this case, the cedar will have a lifespan of about 10 years.
Food is one of the basic needs of a person. During natural events or bad economic conditions, rice can be one of the most affordable foods, especially since it can be stored for a longer period of time compared to fruits, vegetables, and meat. Of course, for this purpose, you should use the methods of storing rice at home.
