How to Cook Healthy, Long-Lasting, and Low-Cholesterol Rice

Kapanlagi.com - Cooking rice is a ritual that is inseparable from the daily lives of many people, especially in Indonesia. However, we often face problems with rice that spoils quickly or concerns about its impact on health, especially related to cholesterol levels.

Recently, an interesting post from the Facebook page Resep Masakan Boenda shared a simple trick that could be a solution to both of these problems: adding garlic while cooking rice. This method is believed to make the rice last longer and simultaneously help lower cholesterol levels in the body.

In this article, KapanLagi.com has summarized various information about the benefits, application methods, and additional tips to keep rice fresh and healthy for a longer time. Read on to discover smart ways to cook rice that is not only delicious but also beneficial for your health, Friday (21/3/2025)!

1. Benefits of Garlic in Cooking Rice

Garlic is not just a kitchen spice, but it also has many health benefits. Adding it to rice not only makes it more fragrant and delicious, but also prolongs its shelf life thanks to its antibacterial and antifungal properties.

In addition, garlic can help lower bad cholesterol (LDL), making it good for heart health. With one simple step, ordinary rice can become a healthier and more appetizing dish!

2. Helping Rice Last Longer

Garlic contains allicin, a sulfur compound with strong antibacterial and antifungal properties.

A simple step can enhance the longevity of rice:

• Adding whole garlic cloves to the rice cooker can help reduce the risk of bacterial contamination, making the rice last longer.
• To keep the rice fresh, wash the rice thoroughly to remove dirt and excess starch.
• Use the right amount of water and cook just enough so that the rice is always delicious and appetizing.

3. Lowering Bad Cholesterol (LDL)

Research reveals that garlic can lower bad cholesterol (LDL) by inhibiting its production in the liver. This makes it a natural choice for maintaining heart health.

Additionally, reducing white rice and switching to brown rice or whole grain rice can help balance cholesterol levels. Avoid high-cholesterol foods such as organ meats and fast food, and increase your intake of fiber-rich fruits and vegetables.

4. Enhancing the Aroma and Flavor of Rice

Bringing a tempting aroma while cooking rice can be as simple as adding a pinch of garlic. In addition to providing an appetizing scent, garlic also helps to retain the original flavor of the rice.

This is a smart natural way to enhance the enjoyment of the dish without relying on artificial flavorings. With just a little touch, rice can taste more special without the addition of chemicals.

Not only garlic, but you can also experiment with other natural ingredients. Add shallots for depth of flavor, lemongrass for a touch of freshness, or pandan leaves for an unforgettable fragrant aroma.

5. How to Cook Rice with Garlic

To experience the magic of garlic in your rice dish, follow these simple steps!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of rice
• 2 cloves of peeled garlic

Cooking instructions:

1. Wash the rice thoroughly by rinsing it 2-3 times.
2. Put the rice in the rice cooker and add water according to the correct measurement.
3. Place the garlic in the center of the rice, then close the rice cooker and press the "cook" button.
4. After the rice is cooked, don't forget to remove the garlic and stir the rice to distribute the steam evenly.

6. Tips to Prevent Rice from Spoiling Quickly

To keep your rice fresh and delicious for longer, there are several effective tricks you can apply!

• First, make sure to wash the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch.
• Use the right amount of water to achieve the perfect rice texture.
• Don't forget to clean the rice cooker regularly to prevent bacteria from growing inside.
• After the rice is cooked, gently stir it to release excess steam.
• Use the "keep warm" feature only when necessary to keep the rice warm without excess moisture.

With these tips, your rice will always be ready to delight your taste buds!

7. Is Cooking Rice with Garlic Effective?

Many netizens are eager to share positive experiences about a new rice storage method that makes it last longer and not smell easily. They also feel that the kitchen becomes fresher thanks to this method.

However, the results may vary depending on the type of rice used and the storage conditions. Therefore, it is important to adjust this method to individual needs.

8. FAQ: Questions About Cooking Rice with Garlic

1. Is it true that garlic can make rice last longer? Yes, because its antibacterial properties help inhibit the growth of microorganisms that cause rice to spoil quickly.

2. Does garlic affect the taste of rice? Not significantly. If added whole, garlic only imparts a slight aroma without changing the taste significantly.

3. Can this method be applied to all types of rice? Yes, this method can be used for white, red, and brown rice, although the final results may vary in texture.

4. Should garlic be peeled before adding it to the rice? It is better to peel it so that the active compounds can be absorbed more easily into the rice.

5. Is this method safe for people with gastritis? Generally safe in small amounts, but if you are sensitive to garlic, it is better to consult a doctor first.

(kpl/sfa)