Rice bran oil, often overlooked but incredibly versatile, is a valuable addition to any kitchen. It is extracted from the outer layer of rice grains, known as rice bran. This oil boasts a wide range of health benefits and culinary uses. Let’s explore how it’s made and discover its various advantages for cooking and skincare.
What is Rice Bran oil?
Rice bran oil is a vegetable oil and a by-product of rice bran which has gained popularity in Asian countries like India, China, Japan, Thailand and Taiwan as an edible oil. It contains γ-oryzanol, tocotrienols, and mono and polyunsaturated fatty acids, which may lower bad cholesterol (LDL) by increasing bile excretion and also stimulate insulin production, regulate blood glucose levels, and activate liver enzymes to lower blood sugar levels.
Making rice bran oil is a careful process. The rice grains are milled to get the oil-rich part called bran. This bran goes through a detailed process to ensure the oil is pure and full of good nutrients like antioxidants and vitamins. It helps with cholesterol and even makes your skin and hair healthier. Its light texture and mild taste also make it perfect for cooking in different ways, like frying and baking. Hence it is a hidden gem for those looking for a healthier option in the kitchen.
How is Rice Bran oil made?
Here’s how it’s made-
1. Cleaning:
The first step is cleaning the rice bran to remove any impurities and improve oil yield.
2. Puffing:
Next, the rice bran undergoes puffing, where high temperature and pressure destroy the cells, essential for making rice bran oil.
3. Solvent extraction:
The oil solvent extraction plant uses a process similar to other cooking oil extraction plants, involving solvent extraction, desolventizing, oil stripping, and solvent recovery.
4. Refining and dewaxing:
The final stage includes refining the oil through degumming, deacidification, decolourization, and deodorization. Unlike other oils, this also requires a dewaxing section due to its higher wax content (about 3% – 5%).
Benefits of using Rice Bran oil
Ever wondered how it can benefit your health? then here’s everything you need to know
- High Smoke Point
- Maintains Neutral Taste
- Heart-Healthy
- Low in saturated fats
- Ideal for all types of cooking
- Maintains good Cholesterol levels
- Rich in Antioxidants
- Good for the immune System
- Better Digestion
- Stays fresh for much longer
- Economical and efficient
Did you know that Rice bran wax benefits your skin? click here to know more.
By Understanding these benefits of rice bran, we have formulated our Kissu lip mask with Capuacu Butter, Jojoba Oil & Rice Bran
The Kissu lip mask is a rich blend of Capuaçu butter, rice bran, and jojoba oil which aims to provide intense hydration and nourishment for your lips. Our nourishing formula goes beyond surface hydration by resorting to and treating dry lips. Along with deep conditioning, it also strengthens the skin barrier
With the non-sticky formula, our Kissu lip mask is made suitable for day & night application. Regular use of our lip mask makes your lips soft, lightened, and revitalized. It is also free from parabens, SLS, alcohol, mineral oil, essential oils, and synthetic dyes.
Follow the link to purchase the product: https://beyondrice.in/store/face/capuacu-rice-bran-kissu-lip-mask/
Healthy recipes using Rice Bran oil
1. Winter special Khichdi:
For a hearty winter meal, try this easy Khichdi recipe. Start by washing and soaking 1 cup of rice and 1/2 cup of yellow lentils for 30 minutes. In a pressure cooker, heat 2 tablespoons of rice bran oil and add cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and asafoetida. Sauté mixed vegetables like carrots, peas, beans, potatoes, and tomatoes for a few minutes. Drain the soaked rice and lentils and add them to the cooker along with turmeric powder, red chilli powder, and salt. Pour in about 3 cups of water and pressure cook for 3-4 whistles. Serve hot with a dollop of ghee for a comforting winter treat.
2. Warm and Nutty Rice Bran Porridge:
Warm up your mornings with a delicious bowl of Rice Bran Porridge. In a saucepan, toast 1 cup of oats in 2 tablespoons of rice bran oil until aromatic. Add 3 cups of milk or plant-based milk and simmer gently for 15-20 minutes until thickened. Sweeten with honey or maple syrup and top with chopped nuts and dried fruits. This cosy and nutritious porridge is a delightful way to kickstart your day during chilly winters.
3. Cauliflower fried rice:
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of rice bran oil. Add beaten eggs and cook, then cut into strips and set aside. In the same pot, stir-fry scallions, ginger, celery, red bell pepper, and carrots until the carrots are tender. Add peas, corn, riced cauliflower, low-sodium chicken stock, low-sodium soy sauce, and a few drops of sesame oil. Stir-fry until the cauliflower is soft. Remove from heat and fold in the cooked eggs, fresh chopped cilantro, and toasted sesame seeds. Enjoy this flavorful and nutritious cauliflower fried rice with a variety of vegetables.
4. Salad with Rice Bran oil:
You’ll need a full lettuce, half a lemon for juice, minced garlic, a teaspoon of sugar, 1/4 cup of Rice Bran Oil, salt, and pepper. Mix the sugar with lemon juice until dissolved, then add garlic, salt, pepper, and Rice Bran Oil. Whisk thoroughly and drizzle over chopped lettuce for a delicious and nutritious salad. Enjoy the Swad Anusara (flavoursome) goodness!
Check out more of these healthy recipes using rice bran oil.
Conclusion
In summary, the journey from rice grains to rice bran oil involves careful processing and extraction methods, resulting in a nutrient-packed oil with various health benefits. Whether you’re frying, baking, or sauteing, rice bran oil’s mild flavour and nutritional profile make it a top choice for health-conscious cooks. Elevate your dishes with the goodness of rice bran oil and experience a healthier way to cook.