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Now popular and in demand across the world, rice and quinoa are two of the best side dishes to go with your preferred vegetables and lean proteins. With increasing focus on eating simple and easy-to-cook meals, ancient grains like rice and quinoa are now gaining more importance than ever. They have several characteristics: both are quick and simple to prepare, gluten-free sources of carbohydrates, and go well with a range of meals.
You normally eat one or the other in a meal rather than both because they are so similar to one another. Which should you select, then? Here's what you need to know.
Because quinoa is a seed that people prepare and consume like a grain, it is occasionally called a "pseudocereal." With a history of around 7,000 years and a South American origin, it is one of the most well-known ancient grains. White, red, and black are a handful of the different varieties available.
Rice belongs to the Poaceae (grass) plant family. It is a staple food all over the world and a starchy grain that is a good source of carbs. White, red, brown, basmati, jasmine, and wild rice are just a few more than 40,000 kinds available.
What Sets These Grains Apart?
Protein Content:
More protein is found in quinoa than in other grains, including white rice. According to Healthline, quinoa is a complete protein source, which means it contains all nine of the essential amino acids that the body needs but cannot produce on its own. In contrast to the majority of plant-based diets, which are incomplete proteins.
On the other hand, white rice is not a full source of protein. One cup of quinoa has 8 grams of protein, which is twice as much as the same amount of white rice.
Glycemic Index:
Although quinoa still contains more fibre than brown rice, both are excellent sources of fibre. Quinoa is an excellent choice for people who have trouble with high blood sugar, high blood pressure, or weight loss because it has less total carbs and a lower glycemic index than both brown and white rice as per The Healthy.
Taste And Texture:
Quinoa after cooking ought to be airy and fluffy. The texture is really distinct and chewy. Many individuals describe the taste as having an earthy, nutty flavour. If quinoa is not rinsed or soaked before cooking, it occasionally may taste bitter or soapy.
There are many different types of rice, and not all of them taste and feel the same. Both plain white rice and brown rice typically have a moderate flavour. Depending on how long you cook the rice, the texture might be either soft and fluffy or chewy.
So Which One Is Better?
Since a balanced, healthy diet is key, it is impossible to conclude which one is healthier. If you pick one over the other, your health won't undergo any significant alterations.
Rice and quinoa are both acceptable options if you have celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or intolerance.
