Rice Rivals: 10 superfood grains that will break your bond with white rice

Lim Han

11 Mar 2017

updated the 13 March 2017 à 17:15

These grains are p-rice-less.

1/10
Red rice
No, they don’t just differ in colour. Red rice, being less refined than its white counterpart, retains a much higher nutritional value. High in fibre, zinc and anti-oxidants, fitness fanatics adore it for its divine ability to lower blood glucose and cholesterol. Now you see that when it comes to rice, red is the new black.
2/10
Quinoa
Health fanatics, this grain must be no stranger to you. In fact, you probably stock up countless packs of it at home. Not only does it have a creamy texture when cooked, quinoa also possesses unbelievable health benefits. We would bore you out of your wits if we were to list them all but to name a few - this wheat-free alternative can improve metabolic health, aid in weight loss and lower blood cholesterol.
3/10
Buckwheat
These tiny brown jewels are gaining recognition in the superfood realm and we know just why. Able to lower blood sugars at a remarkably slow rate, they’re the perfect staple for diabetics. Not only that, these grains contain high levels of rutin which can lower high blood pressure. Tip: Toasted buckwheat pairs like a dream with creamy oatmeal.
4/10
Bulgur Wheat
A staple in Turkish and Middle Eastern cuisines, this alternative grain is slowly sliding into the plates of Asian households. Packed with dietary fibre, magnesium and iron, bulgur can shield against cancer, heart disease and diabetes.
5/10
Millet
Who says millet is only meant for birds? Although commonly used in bird feed, its creamy fluffy taste makes it worthy of being human feed as well. This heart-healthy grain is high in magnesium, copper and calcium, making it a reliable remedy for migraine and asthma attacks.
6/10
Farro
Farro goes a long way back in history, and it’ll go a long way in improving your health as well. Being an excellent source of protein and magnesium, it can reduce the risk of stroke and several inflammatory diseases. It’s no wonder the Egyptian Pharaohs were head over heels for this grain.
7/10
Amaranth
If an immortality elixir existed, it would be in the form of amaranth. This spectacular grain is loaded with protein, iron, vitamins and a ton of other good stuff. Wielding the power to lower cholesterol and blood pressure, boost immunity, prevent cancer and improve digestive health, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t consume this magical grain. The best part – you can pop it and eat it like you would popcorn.
8/10
Freekeh
This ancient grain is old but totally gold. When it comes to health benefits, freekeh definitely has the upper hand. Having more protein and twice as much fibre as quinoa, this grain definitely blows quinoa out of the water. Not only that, it can be easily incorporated into your soups and salads.
9/10
Spelt
This grain’s high nutritional value yet subtly nutty taste spells good news for all health fanatics. Improving blood circulation, digestion and bone health, spelt is truly a wonder. Being a type of hulled wheat, it is popular as a wheat alternative in artisanal breads and pasta.
10/10
Kamut
Kamut is yet another ancient grain packed with proteins and vitamins. Not only that, its hardy nature eliminates the need for pesticides, making it perfect for organic farming. Having a rich buttery taste, you can bet you won’t be in tears as you give up your plate of white rice.

If there’s one thing that could bind the Asian community together, it’s our love for rice (white, in particular). For many of us, this ubiquitous staple appears on our plates at least once a day. We just can’t get enough of its creamy fluffiness yet neutral taste which soaks up any flavour infused into it. From golden pineapple rice to sumptuous fried rice, white rice is definitely an Asian favourite.

But, let’s hold our horses – we’re neglecting the tons of other amazing grains out there which possess a remarkably greater level of nutrition and health benefits than white rice. These grains are packed with nutrients and minerals that will have you feeling like an unstoppable warrior. Head over to our gallery and be stunned by the versatility and variety of these superfood grains.

Lim Han

Photos: Getty Images

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