Rice is an essential ingredient for many dishes. It is a versatile, healthy, and inexpensive food that is the basis of people’s diets worldwide. It is a rich source of carbohydrates that is a primary source for people to feel full. But, we have always been told that rice makes us fat, and one should avoid rice if they try to lose weight. What if you know that there is a certain kind of rice that helps you lose weight? Yes, you read it right. Today, we will share miracle rice with you, which can also be included in your keto diet. Read on to learn about a variety of rice known as Shirataki Rice or Konjac Rice. shirataki rice is also available in the form of shirataki noodles. It is a perfect substitute for rice in your keto diet. It has fiber, low carbs, and tastes delicious.
It is a famous rice variety in parts of Asia. People worldwide are not noticing this variety of rice due to its low carb and low-calorie content. It is made from Asian yams called Konjac root, which resembles potatoes. Konjac is grown predominantly in China, Japan, and Thailand and has a history of being consumed in Asia. Manufacturers convert konjac root into rice-shaped grains.
It contains a soluble fiber called glucomannan, making you full quickly. The fiber in it is way less than traditional rice. In addition, the glucomannan from the konjac root is good for constipation. It also keeps blood sugar steady.
Shirataki Rice Nutrition Facts
The low-carb rice has a ton of health benefits. Regular boiled rice contains 64% water, while pre-cooked rice comprises approximately 97% water and 3% soluble fiber. One four-ounce rice serves about 30 calories, three grams of carbs, and three grams of fiber. However, some brands even offer zero-calorie rice. The carbs in rice come from glucomannan; it is prebiotic, feeding the probiotic bacteria in the gut and keeping your digestion smooth. The properties of this rice help in weight loss.
Is shirataki rice the same as konjac rice?
Yes, shirataki rice and konjac rice are the same. It is made from a konjac plant, also known as konjac rice. Konjac rice is also available in noodle form. It is an excellent substitute for traditional noodles in your keto diet.
Is shirataki rice keto-friendly?
Yes, it is keto-friendly. It has a similar flavor and texture as traditional rice. Mostly, all brands have zero net carbs in their rice. The low carb in the rice can help you reduce your overall carb intake. So, you will eliminate unnecessary carbs from the body, and it will help you in shedding some weight. But make sure you don’t completely cut off carbs from your food as it can leave you exhausted.
How to prepare shirataki rice before cooking?
It has an unpleasant smell. To get rid of it:
1. Rinse it with water twice or thrice.
2. If the smell does not go, pour warm water over it.
3. Let it sit for five minutes and rinse it thoroughly.
How to cook shirataki rice?
You do not require many ingredients to cook it. Olive oil, black pepper, and salt are enough to make it tasty. After rinsing the rice:
- Add it into a saute pan without the oil and saute it over medium to low heat to altogether remove the moisture.
- Make sure you do not add oil till it is scorched.
- Once the water evaporates, add olive oil, black pepper, and salt.
- Let it cook for a few minutes.
There are many recipe variations to this. You can also add vegetables and mushrooms or make rice soup.
Storage Instructions
- Cooked rice can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
- This rice is not freezer friendly.
- You can reheat the rice in the microwave or over the stovetop.
- If you have opened the rice packet but haven’t cooked it, then soak it in water and keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for a week. Change the water every two days.
Always remember that making rice or any other healthy food will not help you lose weight in the blink of an eye. There is no miracle to weight loss. Real and lasting weight loss happens when you follow a specific diet consistently. It would include lean protein, lots of vegetables, healthy fats, and all these in appropriate portions of nutrient-rich carbs such as whole grain or fruit.
Glucomannan does offer legit benefits, but the nutritional content also depends on the brand. Some brands inject nutrients like fiber and protein, while other brands don’t do so. Add some vegetables for extra nutrition and filling fiber. You can also add lean protein; it will help you build muscle and stay full. This variety of rice is chewier compared to other varieties, and a single portion makes you feel full for hours.
Although the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has allowed manufacturers to label it as a zero-calorie food, researchers are still investigating the health benefits of glucomannan fiber in reducing glucose, digestive health, blood pressure, and other factors.
Conclusion
Shirataki rice is an alternative to rice because it has a low carbohydrate or low-calorie diet. It has few calories per serving and is made from a substance called glucomannan which comes from konjac root. It is a soluble fiber that absorbs a lot of water. It is made from glucomannan and is about 3% fiber and 97% water; that’s why it is low in calories. The fiber in the diet provides good health and reduces constipation. It acts as a prebiotic and promotes healthy bacteria.
Amazing Lokarb makes sure you do not have to give up your comfort food. However, excessive fiber may cause some side effects, such as bloating and discomfort. In such cases, one should discontinue eating it. Amazing Lokarb makes quality shirataki rice and is registered with the FDA.