Looking for a gluten-free and nutritious alternative to wheat flour? Look no further than brown rice flour! This flour is made by grinding whole grain brown rice into a fine powder, and it has a light brown colour and slightly nutty flavour that's milder than whole wheat flour. But what sets brown rice flour apart is its nutritional value. It is a good source of fibre, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals, including manganese, magnesium, and selenium, making it a nutritious addition to your diet.
Research suggests that consuming whole grains, such as brown rice, may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Additionally, studies have shown that replacing refined grains with whole grains can improve insulin sensitivity, lower inflammation levels, and aid in weight management.
Making your own brown rice flour is easy and inexpensive, and it only takes a few simple steps. Start by rinsing the brown rice thoroughly with water to remove any debris or dirt. Then, soak the rice in water for at least 2 hours to soften it up. Once it's done soaking, drain the rice and spread it out on a baking tray lined with baking paper. Let it dry completely, which can take anywhere from a few hours to overnight depending on the humidity and temperature.
Once the rice is dry, transfer it to a blender or food processor and pulse it until it becomes a fine powder. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your blender or food processor. Finally, sift the brown rice flour through a fine mesh sieve to remove any larger pieces of rice or debris. Store the brown rice flour in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months.
With your homemade brown rice flour, you can create a variety of gluten-free baked goods, including bread, tortillas, cakes, cookies, and pancakes. You can use it alone or in combination with other gluten-free flours to create delicious and healthy treats. So why not give it a try and see how easy it is to make your own brown rice flour at home and improve your overall health?