Have you ever made popcorn rice? It’s a great way to add some extra flavor and texture to your dish. But can you actually pop the rice like you can pop popcorn kernels?
It is possible to make popcorn rice like you make popcorn. All you need popcorn rice or another rice like basmati or jasmine, some oil and a pot. You can use uncooked rice or cook the rice before you pop it in oil.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the science behind popcorn rice and find out how to make perfect popcorn rice once and for all. Stay tuned!
What Is Popcorn Rice?
Popcorn rice is long-grain rice that is a basmati hybrid. It comes from Louisiana and smells like popcorn, hence the name popcorn rice. The texture is firm and fluffy and the grains stay separated after cooking. You can also pop it for a treat.
Can I Make Popcorn Rice At Home?
Yes, you can make popcorn rice at home with a pot and a tight-fitting lid. You can cook the uncooked popcorn rice to get a little puffed rice which is crunchy or pop cooked rice that gets a bigger fluffier grain. Try them both and see which one you like better.
1. Heat your pot on the stove over medium heat.
2. Add enough oil to coat the bottom of the pot. Usually, 2-3 tablespoons are plenty.
3. Add the popcorn rice in a single layer to cover the bottom of the pan and stir to coat in the oil.
4. Put the lid on the pot and wait for the rice to start popping.
5. Once the rice has stopped popping, remove it from the heat and let it cool before eating.
6. Enjoy your delicious popcorn rice.
How Do I Make The Popcorn Rice Crispy?
If you want your popcorn rice to be extra crispy, you can try a few different methods. One method is to add the uncooked rice to a pan with a little bit of oil to crisp it up, then add it to your pan of water for cooking. This tip will help to crisp up the outside of the rice.
Another method is to heat the rice on a higher temperature to pop it more quickly. This trick will also help to crisp up the outside of the rice but you can also burn it very easily if you step away and are not watching closely.
Once the popcorn has finished popping, you’ll also want to use a fine mesh strainer to let them air out. Letting them sit will help it crisp up even more, but you should wait 10-15 minutes for the best results but the choice is yours how long to wait.
What Is The Best Rice For Popcorn Rice?
Popcorn rice, Basmati rice or Jasmine rice works best for popcorn rice. If popping the cooked rice, it should be dry and not too sticky. It will be more challenging to pop if the rice is too sticky and won’t have the same light and fluffy texture.
Does Popcorn Rice Taste Like Regular Popcorn?
Popcorn rice does not taste exactly like regular popcorn, but it has a distinct texture that you can grow to love. It has a chewy and slightly crunchy texture with a nutty flavor. If you want your popcorn rice to taste more like regular popcorn, you can try adding some salt or butter to it after it’s cooked. (Don’t forget to use the tips above to make it more crispy).
What Are Some Good Seasonings To Use With Popcorn Rice?
One of the great things about popcorn rice is that it’s so versatile. You can season it however you like. Some good seasonings to use with popcorn rice include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. You can even add some butter or cheese to your popcorn rice for extra flavor.
What Other Ways Can I Use Popcorn Rice In My Kitchen?
Popcorn rice is a great way to add some extra texture and flavor to your dishes. You can use it as a rice replacement in stir-fries, soups, and salads. Many people also use popcorn rice to make rice pudding. The options out there are nearly endless.
You can make your own granola type mixture, by adding almonds, coconut shavings, some cranberries or what ever ingredients you enjoy. This is a great treat on the go.
You can use it for rice crispy treats or on top of your ice cream for a crunchy snack.
Are There Any Health Benefits To Popcorn Rice?
Yes, there are actually quite a few health benefits to eating popcorn rice. One benefit is that it’s a whole grain containing all of your body’s essential nutrients to function properly. These nutrients include fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Another benefit of popcorn rice is that it’s low in calories and fat. One cup of popped popcorn rice contains only about 50 calories and 1 gram of fat. This makes it an excellent snack for people watching their weight or trying to eat healthier.
Popcorn rice is also a good source of antioxidants. Antioxidants are essential because they help to protect your cells from damage. This damage can lead to diseases such as cancer, so it’s important to get plenty of antioxidants in your diet. Popcorn rice is a good way to do that.
How Do I Store Popcorn Rice?
Popcorn rice can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you want to store it for longer, you can keep it in the fridge for about four to five weeks. You can also freeze popcorn rice for up to six months.
If you’re storing it after popping, let it cool entirely beforehand. If you store it while it’s still warm, it will get mushy and won’t have the same crispy texture.
So there you have it! Everything you need to know about popping popcorn rice. Now go out and try making it yourself. Be sure to use the tips above to make it perfect every time.
Here is a relaxing video showing how to cook rice like popcorn. He also added popped rice to his chocolate to make another tasty snack.
