Are you looking for a gluten-free alternative to wheat flour? Look no further than non glutinous rice flour!
This fine flour is made by milling medium to long-grain, non-glutinous white or brown rice kernels. Unlike glutinous rice flour, which is sticky and gluey when cooked, non glutinous rice flour is free of gluten and adds a stretchy, cake-like texture to many dishes.
In this article, we’ll explore the uses and benefits of non glutinous rice flour, as well as some tips for cooking with it. Whether you’re a seasoned gluten-free cook or just starting out, you won’t want to miss this informative guide.
So let’s dive in!
What Is Non Glutinous Rice Flour?
Non glutinous rice flour is a type of flour that is made from rice that does not contain gluten. Gluten is a protein found in wheat products that gives bread its chewy texture. Non glutinous rice flour is ideal for those who are on a gluten-free diet or have celiac disease.
This type of flour is made by milling medium to long-grain, non-glutinous white or brown rice kernels. It is commonly used in Asian cuisine and can be used as a thickener, frying batter, or in baked goods. Non glutinous rice flour adds a stretchy, cake-like texture to dishes and is a great alternative to wheat flour.
The Difference Between Glutinous And Non Glutinous Rice Flour
Glutinous rice flour and non glutinous rice flour may look similar, but they have significant differences in texture, taste, and usage. Glutinous rice flour is made from short-grain white rice, while non glutinous rice flour is made from medium to long-grain white or brown rice.
Due to the difference in rice varieties, glutinous rice flour is chewier than non glutinous rice flour when cooked. It is commonly used in desserts such as mochi, sticky rice cakes, and dumplings. On the other hand, non glutinous rice flour has a cake-like texture and is better suited for baking and frying recipes such as pancakes, bread, and tempura batter.
Another difference between the two flours is that glutinous rice flour is gluten-free despite its name. The term “glutinous” refers to its sticky texture when cooked, not to its gluten content. Non glutinous rice flour is also gluten-free since it is made from rice that does not contain gluten.
In terms of taste, both flours have a mild flavor that does not overpower other ingredients in a recipe. However, non glutinous rice flour has a slightly sweet and nutty taste compared to glutinous rice flour.
Benefits Of Non Glutinous Rice Flour
There are several benefits to using non glutinous rice flour in your cooking and baking. Firstly, it is an economical choice as it is made from one of the most commonly consumed grains in the world. This makes it a cost-effective option for those who want to avoid wheat flour and gluten.
Another benefit of non glutinous rice flour is its subtle taste. It has a neutral flavor that allows other ingredients to shine through, making it a great choice for recipes where you want the flavors of other ingredients to be prominent. Additionally, non glutinous rice flour is soft and elastic due to the absence of gluten, which makes it ideal for creating chewy and stretchy textures in baked goods.
Non glutinous rice flour is also rich in nutrients such as carbohydrates, fiber, and protein. It is low in fat and contains essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin B6, magnesium, and iron. This makes it a healthy option for those who are looking to improve their diet while still enjoying delicious food.
Lastly, non glutinous rice flour is versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. It can be used to make noodles, dumplings, pancakes, and even as a thickener in soups and sauces. Its versatility makes it a great option for those who want to experiment with new recipes and flavors.
Uses Of Non Glutinous Rice Flour In Cooking
Non glutinous rice flour has many uses in cooking. It is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from sweet to savory. Here are some common uses of non glutinous rice flour in cooking:
1. Baked Goods: Non glutinous rice flour is an excellent choice for baking cakes, cookies, and other sweets. Its light texture and neutral flavor make it a great substitute for wheat flour in gluten-free recipes.
2. Noodles: Rice flour is commonly used to make noodles in Asian cuisine. Non glutinous rice flour can be used to make a variety of noodles, from thin rice vermicelli to thick udon noodles.
3. Tempura Batter: Non glutinous rice flour is also a key ingredient in tempura batter. Its light texture helps create a crispy coating on fried foods.
4. Thickener: Non glutinous rice flour can be used as a thickener in soups, stews, and gravies. Its ability to absorb liquids and create a smooth texture makes it an ideal substitute for wheat flour or cornstarch.
5. Pancakes and Crepes: Rice flour is commonly used to make pancakes and crepes in Asian cuisine. Non glutinous rice flour can be used to make a variety of pancakes, from savory scallion pancakes to sweet coconut pancakes.
Tips For Cooking With Non Glutinous Rice Flour
If you are new to cooking with non glutinous rice flour, there are a few tips that can help you achieve the best results:
1. Use it as a substitute for wheat flour: Non glutinous rice flour can be used as a substitute for wheat flour in many recipes. However, it is important to note that it has a different texture and absorbency rate than wheat flour, so it may require some adjustments to the recipe.
2. Combine it with other gluten-free flours: To achieve a more well-rounded texture and flavor in your baked goods, try combining non glutinous rice flour with other gluten-free flours such as almond flour or tapioca flour.
3. Use it for frying: Non glutinous rice flour is great for frying because it creates a crispy texture without absorbing too much oil. It can be used alone or combined with other flours such as cornstarch or potato starch.
4. Add xanthan gum: Xanthan gum is a common ingredient used in gluten-free baking to help bind the ingredients together and create a more cohesive texture. Adding a small amount of xanthan gum to non glutinous rice flour can help improve the texture of your baked goods.
5. Experiment with different brands: Not all non glutinous rice flours are created equal. Some brands may have a finer or coarser texture than others, which can affect the final result of your recipe. Experiment with different brands to find the one that works best for your needs.
By following these tips, you can confidently cook and bake with non glutinous rice flour and enjoy its unique texture and flavor in your favorite dishes.
Conclusion: Why Non Glutinous Rice Flour Is A Great Gluten-Free Alternative
Non glutinous rice flour is a great gluten-free alternative for those who are sensitive to gluten or have celiac disease. It is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from savory to sweet. Unlike wheat flour, non glutinous rice flour does not contain gluten, which makes it easier to digest and less likely to cause allergic reactions.
One of the benefits of non glutinous rice flour is that it is easy to find in most grocery stores and online. It is also relatively inexpensive compared to other gluten-free flours. Non glutinous rice flour can be used as a substitute for wheat flour in many recipes, including bread, cakes, and cookies.
Another advantage of non glutinous rice flour is its nutritional value. It is high in carbohydrates and low in fat, making it a good source of energy. Non glutinous rice flour is also rich in vitamins and minerals such as thiamin, niacin, and iron.
