6 Healthier Ways to Cook White Rice Without Sacrificing Taste

White rice may be a staple in many Indonesian dishes, but compared to other staple ingredients, it contains relatively high calories. Improper cooking techniques can increase those calories even further and reduce its nutritional value. Scientific studies have shown that how you cook rice can significantly impact its glycemic index and calorie content. 

Here are 6 healthier ways to cook rice so Mak Cuss can enjoy it without worry!  

How to Cook Rice in a Healthier Way

There are several steps to help you prepare rice that’s both delicious and nutritious. Let’s take a look:

1. Rinse Rice Properly
Research shows that proper rinsing can reduce arsenic levels by up to 30% and remove excess starch that contributes to higher calorie content. Rinse the rice under running water until it becomes slightly clear.
But don’t overdo it—rinsing too much can strip away essential surface nutrients. The ideal rinse is 2–3 times only.

2. Soak the Rice Before Cooking
Soaking rice for 30 minutes to 2 hours can help reduce phytates, which are compounds that inhibit the absorption of important minerals like iron and zinc. Soaking also lowers the glycemic index, making the rice safer for people with diabetes or those on a weight loss program.

3. Use the Right Water Ratio
Water volume impacts both texture and nutrition. For white rice, use a 1:1.5 ratio of rice to water. Other varieties like brown or black rice may require more water, around 1:2 to 1:2.5.
Too much water can make rice mushy and increase its glycemic index, while too little can leave it undercooked and harder to digest.

4. Add Coconut Oil
Recent research suggests that adding a bit of coconut oil while cooking rice can reduce its calorie content. Coconut oil transforms some starch into resistant starch, which functions like fiber and makes you feel full longer.
Just add 1 teaspoon of coconut oil per cup of rice. Don’t worry—it won’t alter the rice’s aroma.

5. Add Vegetables to the Rice
Mixing vegetables into your rice while cooking is a great way to boost both flavor and nutrition. Ingredients like carrots, spinach, or broccoli add vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Fiber helps slow down sugar absorption into the bloodstream, making the rice safer for diabetics and beneficial for overall digestion.

6. Cool the Rice Before Serving
Cooling the rice for a while before serving can increase the level of resistant starch. This type of starch behaves like fiber, is not broken down into sugar, and thus lowers the calorie load. It also promotes a fuller feeling and improves digestive health.

Healthier Rice Starts With Quality Grains

Besides following the six cooking tips above, it’s essential to choose high-quality white rice—like Beras Maknyuss. Processed using modern technology without added fragrance, preservatives, or bleach, Beras Maknyuss offers a safer, healthier option for your family.

Now Mak Cuss knows how to cook rice for better health. Just as important, choose rice that is free from harmful chemicals, like Beras Maknyuss.
You can get it today at your nearest rice store, supermarket, or official Maknyuss distributor.

Make every bite healthier with Beras Maknyuss!