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Are you trying to make a healthier choice for your meals but feeling confused with the options? Your plate can have more diverse variants of rice than you might think. Choosing the right type of rice can significantly impact your health. Since we have already discussed about the different varieties of rice including the brown rice & Mappillai Samba rice (a traditional red rice variety from Tamil Nadu) it’s time to explore about the Matta Rice, its benefits, price & other details related to this traditional Kerala rice variety.
About Kerala Matta Rice
Matta Rice also known as Kerala Matta Rice or Palakkadan Matta Rice, is a traditional rice variety grown mostly in Kerala. Owing to its distinct red hue due to the presence of a nutritious outer layer called bran, Matta Rice is also sometimes referred to as red rice and is a staple in South Asian Cuisine. This traditional rice has a plethora range of health benefits and is not polished like the normal white rice we often consume. It is often served with curries and fish and is one of the most preferrable items in Kerala cuisine.
Kerala Matta Rice Benefits
Nutrition and Calories Information in Parboiled Rice
Good Source of Fiber
Red matta rice stands tall when it comes to health benefits. Palakkadan Matta Rice is a good source of fiber and unlike white rice which is polished this red rice variety keeps this nutritious part intact. The dietary fiber in the rice helps you feel full for a longer period and helps in weight management. Consuming red rice also supports a smooth and regular digestive system. It also encourages the growth of healthy gut bacteria, which is very important for maintaining overall health and well-being.
· Full of Antioxidants
The traditional matta rice in amil is referred to as மட்ட அரிசி or சிவப்பு அரிசி and is one of the most sought-after
varieties of rice among rice lovers who enjoy eating rice but are seeking healthier alternatives in comparison to white rice. It is a rich source of antioxidants which furthers helps to combat free radicals in the body. The red colour of Matta Rice is attributed to the presence of anthocyanins, an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties.· Matta Rice Glycemic Index- A Gift from Nature for Diabetics
Suffering from diabetes is not good and an unpleasant experience but what if nature has already stored the best for you. Unlike white rice matta rice does not digests fast and takes more time in digestion. This slow digestion of rice results to a gradual rise in blood sugar levels helping diabetics enjoy rice without the fear of elevating blood sugar level. Kerala Matta Rice is a friendlier option for health-conscious people and for those suffering from diabetes.
· Combating Anemia
Matta Rice is a good source of iron that helps in reducing the loss of blood. It is a vital mineral which helps in red blood cell production. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, causing fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. Including Matta rice in your diet can help prevent iron deficiency and maintain healthy energy levels.
· Weight Management
Matta Rice Calories are comparatively less than white rice. Red Matta Rice has 150 calories whereas white rice contains up to 200 calories. It is one of the most ideal food items that helps in weight management. This traditional Palakkadan matta rice is beneficial in controlling obesity.
Matta Rice Side Effects
Matta Rice also known as Red Matta Rice or Kerala Matta Rice is usually safe to consume but excessive intake can often lead to harmful side effects. Excessive intake of this variety of rice can lead to several side effects that include digestive discomfort, allergic reactions, Kidney problems in some cases, or liver diseases also in some cases.
Some of the common side effects of Kerala Matta Rice are:
1. Bloating, Gas and Stomach Pain
Bloating, Gas & stomach pain are some of the most common side effects of consuming fiber. Further excessive consumption of red matta rice can lead to indigestion and can also cause constipation for some individuals.
2. Allergic Reactions
Consumption of Palakkadan matta rice is also linked with allergic reactions. Individuals may experience rashes or itching due to the consumption of red rice. Individuals with liver or kidney problems should also be cautious with the potential side effects of liver and kidney.
Matta Rice vs. Brown Rice – How it is different from Brown Rice?
Though both matta rice and brown rice look similar there are few basic differences that sets both the varieties of rice different from each other. While Kerala Matta Rice as the name suggests comes from a specific variety of rice grown in Kerala, brown rice can be obtained from any variety of rice as long as it is not polished. Both are whole grains, but Palakkadan matta rice has a distinctive reddish hue whereas brown rice has a lighter brown appearance. Matta Rice Price is also comparatively higher than brown rice.
Matta Rice Vs White Rice: Which is a Healthier Option for You?
Kerala Matta Rice is normally healthier than normal white rice. Kerala Matta Rice helps in controlling cholesterol level as well as also helps in preventing deficiency of vitamins. Owing to its several health benefits it is usually considered a healthier choice in comparison to white rice. Matta Rice Online price or price in local markets are also comparatively higher than that of the normal white rice.
Matta Rice Glycemic Index which is one of the biggest points of concern for diabetics is also major factor behind people loving this variety of rice. To sum up, this traditional variety of rice is healthier than white rice and in often considered safe to consume.
How to Cook Matta Rice?
Though Kerala Matta Rice is considered a healthy meal option, many people find it difficult to cook it. Through this article we will help you break this misconception and help you prepare Kerala Matta Rice. It can be prepared through different methods that include Pressure Cooker Method, Draining Method, or Instant Pot Method.
Pressure Cooker Method:
1. Take matta rice in a pressure cooker
2. Rub it well using your hands and rinse it multiple times
3. Now rice is cleaned well
4. Cover the rice with lots of water
5. Close the lid of the pressure cooker. Pressure cook for 4 whistles
6. Once the pressure is released, open the cooker
7. Drain the rice in a colander
8. Place the colander over the pressure cooker and let it strain for 10 to 15 minutes to remove all the excess water
Frequently Asked Questions About Matta Rice
Owing to its high fiber content, red matta rice is often considered a good option for weight loss.
Kerala Matta Rice or Palakkadan Matta Rice can be prepared in pressure cooker using the above-mentioned pressure cooker method. Rubbing, Cleaning, Rinsing, and Draining are the simple methods involved in preparing Kerala matta rice.
No, matta rice is not exactly same as brown rice. However, it is often considered same as brown rice.
All matta rice is good and healthy, it is often the personal choice and preference that matters while selecting the quality of matta rice.
Red Matta Rice or Kerala Matta Rice is a traditional rice variety of Kerala, mainly grown in Kerala and deeply rooted in the culture and traditions of Kerala.
