Besides being used as a main dish, brown rice can also be made into tea. This is a delicious and healthy beverage that provides many nutritional benefits to the body.
Brown rice has long been known to contain many beneficial nutrients, and may even help prevent cancer. However, brown rice tea may still be quite unfamiliar to many people, as in our country, this grain is usually consumed as food rather than as a beverage.
Researchers from several universities around the world have confirmed that consuming this type of tea could be a new lifestyle alternative to green tea, even offering some advantages. Let's explore its nutritional value and how to make this beverage in more detail:
1. Nutritional value of brown rice tea
For a long time, East Asians have used brown rice tea as a daily health-promoting beverage , and today it has become a popular drink in many Asian countries.
Unlike regular green tea, brown rice tea contains no caffeine but is rich in minerals. Therefore, this drink is suitable for all ages, including the elderly or those who frequently have trouble sleeping.
Numerous studies have confirmed the health benefits of brown rice tea, showing that its nutritional value is entirely comparable to green tea. Specifically, a cup of brown rice tea provides the body with the following valuable nutrients:
- Polyphenol and flavonoid antioxidants: These active compounds have the ability to protect cells and help inhibit the reproduction of cancer cells by stimulating natural cell death.
- Selenium: An important mineral that helps maintain thyroid function, regulate hormones, and support the body's metabolism.
- Manganese: An essential trace mineral that helps maintain healthy nerve function, stabilize blood sugar levels, and supports the body's synthesis of cholesterol and essential fatty acids.
- B vitamins and folate: Important components that support the body's energy metabolism.
- Fiber: Helps improve digestive function and supports effective weight management.
- Other trace minerals: Brown rice tea also contains abundant amounts of substances such as iron, zinc, copper, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and calcium, which help strengthen bones and joints as well as boost immunity.
2. How to roast and brew delicious brown rice tea at home
Brown rice tea is delicious, easy to drink, and offers many nutritional benefits.
To make a delicious and nutritious cup of tea, you can easily prepare it at home by following these simple steps:
Rice preparation: Use red brown rice, remove any shriveled or damaged grains, then rinse to remove dirt. Afterwards, dry it in the sun for about 1-2 hours so that the rice grains cook evenly when roasted.
Roasting rice: Use a thick pan and always keep the heat low. Stir constantly until the rice grains puff up, become fragrant, and turn evenly brown, then turn off the heat.
To make tea: Use about 20-30g of roasted brown rice and add it to 1 liter of water. You can simmer it for 20-30 minutes, or simply steep the roasted rice in 80°C hot water in a sealed thermos for about 20-30 minutes before drinking.
It should be consumed 1-2 times a day, and note that you should not add sugar if you are on a weight loss diet. Any leftover roasted brown rice should be stored in an airtight container in a dry place or in the refrigerator for later use.
3. Notes on using brown rice tea
Brown rice tea is safe for most people when consumed in moderation. However, to ensure good health, the following points should be noted:
Brown rice has properties that lower blood sugar levels. Therefore, if consuming this type of tea in large quantities daily, it is necessary to closely monitor for signs of hypoglycemia, especially for patients undergoing treatment for diabetes.
Brown rice may interfere with blood sugar control in patients during and after surgery. Therefore, experts recommend stopping the consumption of brown rice tea at least two weeks before a scheduled surgery.
Brown rice tea is an inexpensive yet truly healthy beverage. Start your day with a healthy habit in what you consume daily, and reap the amazing benefits for your life from just a simple cup of tea.