4 Gluten-free recipes using ground rice

 

Ground rice is a very handy ingredient in the making of many amazing cuisines; here we'll walk you through some of the best recipes you can make with ground rice.

Ground rice refers to rice that has been processed into a fine powder or flour-like consistency. It is made by grinding raw rice grains into a powder, and the resulting product is commonly known as rice flour or rice powder. Ground rice is a versatile ingredient used in various culinary applications, including baking, cooking, and thickening soups and sauces.

Is ground rice the same as rice flour?

Yes, ground rice and rice flour are the same thing. They both refer to rice that has been processed into a fine powder or flour-like consistency. The process involves grinding raw rice grains into a powder, resulting in the product known as rice flour or ground rice.

The terms "ground rice" and "rice flour" can sometimes be used interchangeably. In some regions or cuisines, it may be more common to refer to it as ground rice, while in others, it may be referred to as rice flour.

Health Benefits of Ground Rice

Ground rice comes with several health benefits, which make it a viable option in comparison to some flours.

Rice flour is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent option for individuals with celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or those following a gluten-free diet. It provides a safe alternative to wheat flour for baking and cooking.

Rice flour is easily digestible, making it gentle on the stomach and suitable for individuals with digestive issues or sensitive stomachs.

Ground rice is a good source of carbohydrates, which are the body's primary source of energy. It provides a steady and sustained release of energy, making it a suitable option for maintaining energy levels throughout the day.

This type of flour is low in fat and does not contain cholesterol, making it a heart-healthy choice when used in moderation.

Ground rice contains essential minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium, which are important for maintaining healthy bones, muscles, and overall body function.

Rice flour also contains iron, a vital mineral that helps transport oxygen throughout the body and supports overall health.

Compared to some other flours, rice flour has a lower calorie content, which can be beneficial for those aiming to manage their weight or reduce calorie intake.

 

How to Make Tuwo Shinkafa

Tuwo Shinkafa is a popular Nigerian dish made from rice flour. It has a smooth and stretchy texture, similar to a dumpling. Here's a simple recipe for making Tuwo Shinkafa:

Ingredients:

● 2 cups ground rice (rice flour)

● 4 cups water

● Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. In a medium-sized pot, bring the water to a boil over medium heat.

2. While the water is heating up, mix the ground rice with a little water in a bowl to form a smooth paste. Make sure there are no lumps.

3. When the water comes to a boil, gradually add the rice paste to the pot while stirring continuously with a wooden spoon or a whisk. This step is crucial to avoid lumps in the Tuwo Shinkafa.

4. Reduce the heat to low and continue stirring the mixture. It will start to thicken as it cooks.

5. Keep stirring and kneading the mixture in the pot until it becomes stretchy and smooth. This process can take around 5-10 minutes, depending on the heat level and the consistency of the mixture.

6. Once the Tuwo Shinkafa has a smooth and stretchy texture, remove it from the heat.

7. Wet your hands with water to prevent sticking, then take a portion of the Tuwo Shinkafa and roll it into a ball or shape it into a mound.

8. Serve the Tuwo Shinkafa while it's still warm, traditionally accompanied by a variety of Nigerian soups like Miyan Kuka, Miyan Taushe, or Miyan Zogale (all of which are soups with different main ingredients).

Tuwo Shinkafa can be quite sticky, so it's essential to keep your hands wet while shaping it. If the mixture becomes too thick or stiff during the cooking process, you can add a little more hot water to achieve the desired consistency.

How to make rice flour pancakes

Rice flour pancakes are a type of pancake made using rice flour as the main ingredient. Rice flour is a gluten-free alternative to wheat flour, making these pancakes suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Ingredients:

● 1 cup rice flour

● 1 tablespoon sugar

● 1 teaspoon baking powder

● 1/4 teaspoon salt

● 1 cup milk (or dairy-free milk for a vegan option)

● 1 large egg (or a flax egg for a vegan option)

● 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

● Butter or oil for greasing the pan

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the rice flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and vegetable oil.

3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.

4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil.

5. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake.

6. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook the other side until golden brown.

7. Serve warm with your favourite pancake toppings.

How to make Omo Tuo

Omo Tuo, also known as Rice Balls or Rice Balls and Groundnut Soup, is a popular Ghanaian dish. It is a comfort food made from cooked rice that is mashed and formed into smooth, round balls. The rice balls are usually served with a flavorful and savoury soup, often made with groundnut (peanut) paste, vegetables, and sometimes meat or fish.

Ingredients:

● 1 cup ground rice (rice flour)

● 2 cups water or chicken broth

● Salt to taste

● Water for shaping the balls

For the Groundnut (Peanut) Soup:

● 1 cup smooth peanut butter

● 2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth

● 1 onion, finely chopped

● 2-3 garlic cloves,

● minced 1-2 tomatoes,

● chopped 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)

● 1 teaspoon ground coriander

● 1 teaspoon ground cumin

● 1 teaspoon paprika

● 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

● Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions: For the Rice Balls (Omo Tuo):

1. In a saucepan, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil.

2. Add the ground rice (rice flour) to the boiling liquid, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.

3. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes until it thickens and becomes smooth.

4. Remove from the heat and allow it to cool slightly.

5. Wet your hands with water and shape the warm rice mixture into smooth, round balls (about the size of a golf ball). Wetting your hands prevents the mixture from sticking to your hands.

6. Set the rice balls aside while you prepare the groundnut soup.

For the Groundnut (Peanut) Soup:

1. In a separate pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.

2. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, and sauté until the onions become translucent.

3. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften.

4. Add the ground cayenne pepper, ground coriander, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

5. Lower the heat and add the peanut butter and chicken broth (or vegetable broth). Stir until the peanut butter is fully dissolved and the soup is well combined.

6. Let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld together and the soup to thicken slightly.

7. Adjust the seasoning as needed.

Bringing it Together:

1. Gently drop the rice balls into the simmering groundnut soup.

2. Allow the rice balls to cook in the soup for about 10 minutes until they are fully heated through.

3. Serve the West African Rice Balls (Omo Tuo) in Groundnut Soup hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.

How to Make Rice Flour Bread

Rice flour bread is a type of bread made using rice flour as the primary flour instead of traditional wheat flour. It is a gluten-free alternative to regular wheat-based bread, making it suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities or those following a gluten-free diet.

Ingredients:

● 2 cups rice flour

● 1/2 cup tapioca flour or potato starch

● 1 teaspoon xanthan gum (a binder for gluten-free baking)

● 1 teaspoon salt

● 2 teaspoons active dry yeast

● 1 1/2 cups warm water (around 110°F or 43°C)

● 2 tablespoons sugar or honey

● 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

● 3 large eggs, at room temperature

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the rice flour, tapioca flour or potato starch, xanthan gum, and salt until well combined.

2. In a separate bowl, mix the warm water, sugar (or honey), and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy and activated.

3. Add the yeast mixture, vegetable oil, and eggs to the dry ingredients. Mix the ingredients using a stand mixer or hand mixer on low speed until a smooth and sticky dough forms.

4. Grease a standard-sized loaf pan and transfer the dough into it, smoothing the top with a spatula.

5. Cover the loaf pan with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

6. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

7. Once the dough has risen, place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top of the bread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then, transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.