Have you ever stumbled upon a life hack online that suddenly seems to be really popular out of nowhere? We’re always hearing about the latest trends on social media but do they really make a difference? Rice water has been circulating on social media platforms over and over but did you know this nutrient-rich water has actually been used for centuries in areas in Africa and Asia for its natural benefits? What exactly is rice water and what can you use it for in your everyday life?
What is Rice Water?
Rice water is the starchy liquid left behind after washing your rice as you prepare to cook it. Surprisingly, many of us pour away up to 3 litres of this beneficial water when preparing rice without realising how many good things it can be used for.
Nutrient Content
The nutrient content of rice water depends on the type of rice and the method of preparation. Generally, it’s packed with:
- B vitamins
- Vitamin E
- Magnesium
- Phosphorus
- Calcium
- Proteins and amino acids
- Antioxidants
- Oligosaccharides and Ferulic Acid
Cooking with Rice Water
You can use rice water to transform your cooking. Saving your leftover rice water to cook grains like quinoa or vegetables not only can enhance the flavour but can also transform the texture. You’ll also be saving those left-behind nutrients and adding them into your next dish.
In some cultures, rice water is left to ferment, allowing beneficial bacteria to develop. In South India, fermented rice water is used with ground rice and lentils to make batters, and in Korea, it’s used to make makgeolli, a traditional rice wine.
We’re working in partnership with South Staffs Water to establish a deeper understanding on how water is used and valued in different faiths and cultures. In the video below, Malaysian chef and MasterChef winner Ping Coombes gives tips to inspire South Asian communities to save water
Rice Water as a Digestive Aid
Rice water isn’t just great for cooking, it can also aid digestion. A 2021 study by the National Institutes of Health highlights the soothing properties of the starch found in rice water, which can help to relieve digestive issues. The starch content may act as a binding agent when diluted for drinking, which can reduce discomfort.
Hair and Skin
The most talked-about rice water hack is for hair care. Many people swear by its ability to strengthen and repair hair thanks to inositol, a compound that can penetrate damaged hair to repair it from the inside out while also protecting it from future damage.
To add rice water to your hair care routine, you need to let the water ferment for 12–24 hours to give it a chance to enhance the vitamins and minerals. Make sure to stick within these timeframes and don’t let it ferment for longer than 24 hours. Once you’ve completed this step, simply pop it into the fridge until you’re ready to use it. To apply the rice water, transfer it to a small bottle to help with application and use it on your hair after shampooing and conditioning. Focus the rice water onto your scalp rather than the ends of your hair. Let the rice water sit for 2–5 minutes, then rinse away!
In Your Garden
Rice water is a great natural fertilizer for your plants. The nutrients in the water help plants thrive, supporting their growth and promoting healthy bacteria in the soil. You can apply the rice water to your plants using any watering method you prefer, proving to be a good water-saving eco-friendly option for any avid gardener.
To Conclude
As you can see, rice water is more than just a byproduct of cooking, it’s a versatile and nutrient-rich ingredient hosting many benefits. In the future, instead of letting this go down your drain, consider trying out one of the hacks above and see how you get on!