Are you confused about the difference between ground rice and rice flour?
You’re not alone. While both are gluten-free and made from milled long-grain rice, there are some key differences in texture and production that set them apart.
In this article, we’ll explore the nuances of these two products and help you understand which one to use in your cooking and baking.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about ground rice and rice flour.
So, let’s dive in!
What Is The Difference Between Ground Rice And Rice Flour?
The main difference between ground rice and rice flour lies in their texture. Ground rice is a coarser powder than rice flour, which is more refined. While both are made from milled long-grain rice, the process of production differs.
Rice flour is made by grinding down whole white or brown rice grains into a fine powder. This flour is commonly used in baking and as a thickening agent for soups and stews. It is also tasteless, making it a versatile ingredient in many dishes.
On the other hand, ground rice can be made by grinding uncooked rice (white or brown) in a food processor until it has the consistency of traditional “rice.” However, ground rice is often made from partially-milled grains and may still contain traces of bran, which can affect the texture of your baked goods.
In some countries, grinding rice has become an art form with many varieties and brands of rice flour available. In well-stocked Indian or Thai markets, you may find white rice flours and brown rice flours, as well as rice flours mixed with ground dal and/or corn, roasted rice powder, and vitamin-enhanced rice flours.
What Is Ground Rice?
Ground rice is a coarse powder that is made by grinding uncooked rice (white or brown) in a food processor until it has the consistency of traditional “rice.” The coarser texture of ground rice makes it more suitable for boiling, whereas rice flour would go a bit too sticky and clumpy. Ground rice is commonly used in making puddings and as a substitute for wheat flour in gluten-free baking. However, it is important to note that ground rice may still contain traces of bran, which can affect the texture of your baked goods. In the UK, ground rice appears in two forms – rice flour and an even finer rice powder. It is recommended to use rice flour for the ground rice specified in British recipes. Overall, while both ground rice and rice flour are gluten-free and made from milled long-grain rice, their texture and uses differ significantly.
How Is Ground Rice Made?
Ground rice is made by grinding uncooked rice (white or brown) in a food processor until it has the consistency of traditional “rice.” However, ground rice is often made from partially-milled grains and may still contain traces of bran, which can affect the texture of your baked goods.
To make ground rice, you can start by rinsing the rice and draining it. Then, spread it out to dry completely until the grains become crunchy. Once the rice is dry, you can grind it into a coarse powder using a food processor or a stone mill grinder. It is important to note that the texture of ground rice may vary depending on how finely it is ground.
While ground rice can be used in recipes that call for rice flour, it is not interchangeable with it due to its coarser texture and potential traces of bran. Ground rice can also be used as a substitute for wheat flour and is a good choice for people who are looking for gluten-free flour.
What Is Rice Flour?
Rice flour is a type of flour made from finely milled rice grains. It can be made from either white or brown rice, and the husk of the rice or paddy is removed before grinding. Rice flour can be milled at different levels, ranging from coarse to super fine. The finer varieties are commonly used in baking and as a thickening agent for soups and stews.
Rice flour is a staple in many Asian cuisines, including South Indian, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean. It is also a popular substitute for wheat flour for those who are gluten intolerant or sensitive. One of the benefits of using rice flour as a substitute is that it has a neutral flavor and blends in with the dish without altering its taste.
Rice flour is also a hypoallergenic ingredient, making it suitable for those with food allergies or sensitivities. It is easily digested and considered a healthier alternative to refined flours like all-purpose flour or cornstarch.
How Is Rice Flour Made?
Rice flour is made from milled long-grain rice, which can be either white or brown. The process of making rice flour involves removing the outer husk from the rice grains and grinding them down into a fine powder. This process can be done using a commercial mill or at home using a grain mill.
White rice flour is made by milling raw long or medium rice grains, where the bran has been removed before grinding. The coarseness of the rice flour depends on the brand you buy. Brown rice flour, on the other hand, is made from whole grain rice and is not milled as finely as white rice flour. This makes it slightly heavier with a nuttier taste and more noticeable texture in baked goods.
Sweet Rice Flour is a different type of rice flour that is milled from short-grain glutinous rice. It has a unique texture and flavor and is not interchangeable with regular rice flour.
Texture Differences Between Ground Rice And Rice Flour
The texture of ground rice and rice flour also differs. Ground rice has a slightly coarser texture than the more refined rice flour. This difference in texture can affect the outcome of your baked goods, as ground rice may have a grainier texture and may not be as smooth as rice flour.
Rice flour is a fine, creamy-off white powder that is easy to work with and doesn’t alter the taste or texture of your baked goods. It is commonly used as a substitute for wheat flour in gluten-free recipes. Its fine texture also makes it ideal for use as a thickening agent in soups and stews.
Ground rice, on the other hand, can be used in recipes that call for rice flour, but its coarser texture may not be ideal for some dishes. It can also be used as a substitute for wheat flour, but its grainy texture may affect the overall outcome of your baked goods.
Cooking And Baking Uses For Ground Rice
Ground rice can be used in a number of cooking and baking applications. It is a popular ingredient in shortbread, where it is added to give a crumbly texture to the biscuit. Ground rice can also be used as a substitute for wheat flour in recipes, making it a great option for those who are gluten-free.
When using ground rice in baking, it is important to note that the coarser texture may result in a slightly gritty texture. To avoid this, it is recommended to allow your cake batter to rest for at least 10-15 minutes before placing it in the oven. This will give the finely ground rice time to soften slightly and better absorb liquids, resulting in a smoother texture.
In addition to baking, ground rice can also be used as a thickening agent for soups and stews. Its neutral flavor makes it a great option for adding thickness without altering the taste of the dish.
