Rice is an integral part of Indian cuisine. Every region in our country has some special recipes that are prepared using this grain. From simple idli for breakfast to spicy biryani for a wholesome dinner, there are plenty of recipes prepared with rice. We also love combining steamed rice with dal, curry, curd, sambar, and other side dishes. Overall, Indians cannot live without rice.
But have you ever heard of rice kanji? Also known as rice water or porridge, this is made by fermenting rice overnight. Loaded with several nutrients like vitamin B, vitamin C, antioxidants, amino acids, and minerals, it has several health benefits.
Here are five incredible benefits of this humble delight:
Improves The Digestive System
Rice water is rich in fibre and probiotics that soothe several digestive ailments like food poisoning, diarrhoea, and indigestion. According to a report by The Health Site, the starch present in rice kanji stimulates the production of good bacteria in the stomach that promotes healthy bowel movements.
Boost Energy
According to PharmEasy, rice water is good for providing the body with instant energy. As kanji contains carbohydrates, our bodies can easily derive energy by breaking it down. Therefore, it is advised to drink a glass of rice water in the morning to kick start your day with a boost of energy.
Prevents Dehydration
During the summer and monsoon, we are more susceptible to dehydration due to the hot and humid weather. But drinking a glass of kanji before heading out not only keeps you hydrated but also protects you from heat stroke. As it is simple to prepare, you can also consume it on busy days. Rice kanji will replenish all nutrients and water that are lost due to sweating during this season.
Good For Hair Growth
According to Medical News Today, rice water, or kanji, is rich in amino acids, vitamin E, and minerals that make the hair smooth, strong, and shiny and help it grow faster. Rice water treatment has existed for many years in several parts of Southeast Asia. Its application to hair is also effective at preventing tangles.
Promotes Healthy Skin
According to Healthline, rice water may be good for several skin problems, including acne, rashes, inflammation, sun damage, and dry skin. This inexpensive homemade remedy is known to improve skin tone as well. Drinking rice water is also good for eye problems like macular degeneration.
Rice Kanji Recipe
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings-4
Ingredients
- 2 cups of cooked rice
- 4 cups of water
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons of oil
- 5 to 6 curry leaves
- 4 green chillies
- 2 garlic cloves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- A pinch of asafoetida
- lemon juice to taste
- A pinch of turmeric powder
Method
- Combine the water, cooked rice, and salt in a deep bowl. Cover the bowl with a plate and keep it aside to ferment for a day.
- The next day, crush the soaked rice with your hand and then strain the rice water. Keep it aside.
- Heat oil in a deep pan, add asafoetida, mustard seeds, garlic, curry leaves, and green chillies, and sauté for a few seconds.
- Add rice water and turmeric powder, and boil for 20 minutes. Add salt and lemon juice, and mix well. Serve.