Arborio is a variety of rice with a rounded shape typical of Italian cuisine. Therefore it is the ideal to prepare many Italian original meals. It is a medium grain rice with a higher starch content, which makes it absorb the liquids and the rest of the flavors of the dish in a more natural way. In addition, when cooked, it releases starch, thus achieving a more compact result and a thicker texture.
It is a hard and pearly white grain, which once cooked becomes a firm, very creamy and chewy bean. Its porous grains have a slightly nutty flavor, but the main characteristic of this variety of rice is that it can absorb a lot of liquid over long periods of time without caking. That is why it is mainly used for risottos, due to its creaminess and absorption capabilities.
Here we will provide interesting information about arborio rice, and some tips on how to prepare it. Also you will find some health benefits of this special type of rice.
About cooking arborio rice
There are certain rules that you should not overlook for this type of rice, if you want to get that firm and creamy texture. That is especially important when it is used to prepare risotto, which is undoubtedly one of the most requested recipes. That's why you have to know how to make a perfect risotto, step by step, with all the details and the keys to make it delicious. Here are some tips to be considered:
It is important not to wash it before cooking, so as not to lose the amount of starch it contains and thus get the desired creamy texture.
When cooking it, the heat penetrates only the external part, while the internal part remains al dente. The recommended time is about 15-18 minutes.
It should be cooked slowly and the liquid or broth should be added little by little. If you cook it in abundant water like traditional white rice, you will not get that creaminess. Remember that this variety absorbs a lot of water.
Unlike paella, it must be stirred constantly. Moreover, letting it rest is not recommended because the amount of starch it has released will make it sticky and hard.
How to cook arborio rice
As with other rice varieties, the perfect ratio of water to rice is 2:1, which means you should add 2 cups of water for every cup of rice.
Cook the rice on the stove for about 20 minutes, or until all the water has been absorbed. Afterwards, you can season the result by adding salt and olive oil to taste. Also note that it is not recommended to cook arborio rice in the microwave.
It is ideal as a garnish for meat, poultry and fish.
If you are fond of arborio rice and would like to know more about it, you can access this link risotto rice arborio where you will find plenty of information about this food, its characteristics, some cooking tips, a classic risotto recipe and more.
Health benefits
Nutritionally speaking, it is similar to other rices, providing 350 kcal, 0.6 g of fat, 79 g of carbohydrates and 7.3 g of protein per 100 gr. Ninety percent of the nutritional value is carbohydrates and it is considered a good source of fiber.
Other benefits of arborio rice are:
- Has a high protein content required by the different organs of the body to develop, grow and function properly. Arborio rice provides what you need.
- Great source of energy due to the carbohydrates needed for the right functioning of heart, brain, muscles, kidneys and central system.
- Induces weight loss.
- Controls blood pressure, since it is sodium-free. As known, high sodium intake increases blood pressure. If you already suffer from hypertension, sodium-free arborio rice is a healthy alternative..
- Prevents constipation.
- Its fiber content helps to reduce the risk of chronic diseases helping the digestive system and reducing the risk of developing intestinal disorders.
