Cooking Mountain Blend Rice: A Simple Guide

Mountain blend rice is a nutritious and flavourful rice dish that can be cooked in a variety of ways. It is a blend of different types of rice, such as brown, red, and black rice, offering a combination of flavours, textures, and nutritional benefits. This type of rice is a great gluten-free option and can be used in various dishes, from salads to soups and casseroles. When cooking mountain blend rice, it is important to follow certain steps to ensure perfect results. Firstly, it is recommended to rinse the rice to remove any impurities and excess starch. Soaking the rice is optional but can help reduce cooking time and enhance its texture. The rice can be cooked on a stovetop, in a rice cooker, or even a microwave, each method requiring slightly different steps and cooking times.

Rinsing and soaking the rice

Rinsing the Rice:

• Place the mountain blend rice in a fine-mesh strainer.
• Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold running water. Make sure to wash and rinse the rice at least three times to ensure all impurities are removed.
• You can also use a rice cooker or saucepan for rinsing. Simply add the rice and water, then stir gently before draining the water.

Soaking the Rice:

• Soaking the rice is optional but recommended. It can help reduce the cooking time and make your rice more tender.
• Place the rinsed rice in a bowl and cover it with water.
• Let the rice soak for 30 minutes to an hour. You can also leave it on the kitchen counter for up to 2-3 hours if you prefer a longer soak.
• Do not soak the rice for longer than a few hours, as it may cause the rice to burst open before cooking.

By following these steps, you will ensure that your mountain blend rice is properly rinsed and soaked, setting the foundation for a delicious and well-cooked dish.

Cooking the rice

To cook mountain blend rice, start by rinsing the rice in a fine-mesh strainer under cold water. This will help remove any impurities and excess starch. Next, you can choose to soak the rice for 30 minutes to an hour to reduce the cooking time and make the rice more tender, but this is optional.

Once your rice is ready, add 1 cup of mountain blend rice to 3 cups of water or broth in a saucepan. The liquid-to-rice ratio can be adjusted according to your preference. Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the water or broth to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 45-60 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb any remaining moisture and become fluffy. Finally, gently fluff the cooked rice with a fork to separate the grains and enhance its texture. Your mountain blend rice is now ready to be served as a side dish or incorporated into various recipes.

Alternatively, you can use a rice cooker to save time and achieve perfect results. Simply add the rice and water, and let the rice cooker do the rest. The rice cooker will automatically switch off once the rice is cooked, ensuring it is not overcooked or undercooked. This method also keeps the rice warm and eliminates the need for constant attention.

Using a rice cooker

Step 1: Rinse and Soak the Rice:

Firstly, rinse the rice thoroughly under cold running water. This step helps remove any dirt, impurities, or excess starch that may cause the rice to become gummy upon cooking. After rinsing, transfer the rice to a bowl and cover it with water. Soaking the rice for around 30 minutes to an hour softens the outer layers of the grains, resulting in more evenly cooked rice with an improved texture.

Step 2: Determine the Water-to-Rice Ratio:

The water-to-rice ratio is crucial for achieving the desired texture. For mountain blend rice, a general guideline is to use 2 cups of water for every cup of rice. However, if you prefer a softer texture, you can slightly increase the amount of water, and vice versa for a firmer texture.

Step 3: Prepare the Rice Cooker (Optional):

If desired, you can spray the bottom of your rice cooker bowl with a light coating of cooking spray to prevent the rice from sticking. This step is not mandatory but can be helpful for easier cleanup.

Step 4: Add the Rice and Water:

After rinsing and soaking, add the rice and the measured water to the bowl of your rice cooker. Place the lid securely on top.

Step 5: Start the Rice Cooker:

If you have a basic rice cooker with only an 'On' button, simply turn it on and let it work its magic. If your rice cooker has multiple settings, choose the "brown rice" or "mixed rice" setting before starting. The cooking time will vary depending on the model of your rice cooker, but it typically ranges from 45 to 60 minutes for a brown and wild rice blend.

Step 6: Fluff and Serve:

Once the rice cooker indicates that the rice is ready or has automatically switched off, remove the lid and let the rice sit for a few minutes. This allows any remaining moisture to be absorbed and helps prevent clumping. Finally, gently fluff the rice with a fork, and your mountain blend rice is ready to be served!

Tips and Variations:

• You can enhance the flavour of your mountain blend rice by adding seasonings to the water. Try a bay leaf, a sprinkle of sea salt, or a splash of olive oil for an extra burst of flavour.
• For variety, you can substitute water with broth (chicken, beef, or vegetable) to add more depth to your rice.
• If you're short on time, soaking the rice is not mandatory, but it does help improve the texture and reduce cooking time.
• To store leftovers, place the cooked rice in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 6 months.

Adding flavour

Mountain blend rice is a combination of brown, red, and black rice. This blend of rice has a nutty flavor and a chewy texture, adding taste and texture to a variety of dishes. Here are some tips to enhance the flavor of your mountain blend rice:

Using Broth:

Using chicken or vegetable broth instead of water can add more flavor to your mountain blend rice. Broth adds a richer taste and aroma to the rice.

Adding Vegetables:

Cooking rice with vegetables is a great way to add flavor. Sautéed onions, garlic, carrots, and celery are excellent choices to give your rice a more robust flavor.

Spices and Herbs:

Incorporating fresh herbs and spices such as thyme, rosemary, parsley, and garlic can enhance the flavor of your mountain blend rice. These ingredients add depth and aroma to the dish.

Nuts and Dried Fruits:

Pairing the rice with nuts, dried fruits, or a combination of both can create a delightful contrast in textures and flavors.

Pilaf:

To make a pilaf, start by sautéing onions and garlic in a pan. Then, add the mountain blend rice and cook for a few minutes before pouring in your choice of broth and seasonings. Cover the pan and simmer until the rice is cooked to your desired consistency.

Meat and Spicy Vegetables:

Mountain blend rice pairs well with meat and spicy vegetables. For instance, lamb and spicy vegetables like bird's eye chilli, dry barberries, and cumin seeds can create a delicious and comforting meal.

Storing and reheating

When it comes to reheating, simply add a small amount of water or broth to the rice to prevent it from drying out. You can then reheat it in the microwave or on the stove until it is heated through. This will ensure your rice retains its moisture and flavour.

If you want to store your rice for a longer period, you can freeze it. To do this, be sure to drain the rice first and then place it in airtight containers or jars. Frozen rice will keep fresh for up to six months. When you're ready to use it, thaw it by letting it sit in the fridge overnight.

Now that you know how to store and reheat your mountain blend rice, you can enjoy delicious and nutritious rice anytime. With proper storage and reheating techniques, your rice will taste just as good as when it was first cooked.

Frequently asked questions