Cream of Rice is a popular hot cereal that is made from rice flour. It is a great source of carbohydrates and has a low-fat content, making it a healthy breakfast option. 1 cup, dry, yields Cream of Rice (Fat Not Added in Cooking) has 644 calories.

Apart from being a yummy breakfast option, Cream of Rice is also a good source of essential vitamins and minerals. It is important to understand the calorie content and macronutrients present in this food to make informed dietary choices.

In this article, we'll explore Cream of Rice's nutritional value, its many health benefits, cooking tips, and more.

What is Cream of Rice?

Cream of Rice is a type of rice cereal that is made by grinding rice into flour. This flour is then cooked in water or milk to make a creamy and warm breakfast dish. Cream of Rice is similar to Cream of Wheat, but it is made from rice instead of wheat. A single serving size of Cream of Rice is usually about 3 tablespoons of dry cereal mixed with 1 cup of water or milk. The cereal is then cooked and stirred until it becomes thick and creamy. The cooked cereal can be mixed with a variety of toppings such as fruit, nuts, or honey for added flavor and nutrition. Cream of Rice is naturally gluten-free and easy to digest, making it a great breakfast option for people with sensitive stomachs or those who are gluten intolerant.

Calorie Content in Cream of Rice

A 1-cup serving of dry Cream of Rice contains approximately 150-170 calories, depending on the brand. When cooked in water or milk, the calorie count goes up to about 200-230 calories per serving, again depending on how much liquid is added and what type of liquid is used. Cream of Rice is a high-carbohydrate food, with about 40-45 grams of carbohydrates per serving. However, the fat content is very low, with less than 1 gram of fat per serving. This makes it an ideal breakfast option for anyone looking to avoid high-fat or high-calorie foods.

Macronutrients in Cream of Rice

In addition to carbohydrates, Cream of Rice is also a good source of protein, with approximately 3 grams of protein per serving. It is also low in sodium, with only about 5 milligrams per serving. However, Cream of Rice is not a good source of dietary fiber or healthy fats. To add more nutrition to your Cream of Rice, consider mixing it with nuts or seeds or adding fresh fruit on top.

Micronutrients in Cream of Rice

Cream of Rice is a good source of iron, with approximately 10 percent of the daily recommended intake per serving. It also contains small amounts of calcium, potassium, and vitamin B6. However, Cream of Rice is not a good source of vitamin C or vitamin A. To add more nutrition to your Cream of Rice, consider mixing it with fresh fruit or adding a vitamin supplement to your diet.

Health Benefits of Cream of Rice

The nutritional value of Cream of Rice makes it a healthy breakfast option for people looking to maintain a balanced diet or lose weight. It is low in fat and calories, making it a great option for anyone wanting to avoid high-calorie foods. Cream of Rice is also a good source of energy, thanks to its high carbohydrate content. It is perfect for anyone needing a quick source of energy before a workout or in the morning before a busy day. Additionally, Cream of Rice is easy to digest, making it a good option for people with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues.

A Versatile Ingredient

Cream of Rice can be used in a variety of dishes, from sweet breakfast cereals to savory main courses. You can use it as a thickener in soups or stews, or as a base for a cream sauce or gravy. Additionally, you can mix cooked Cream of Rice with mashed sweet potatoes or pureed squash to create a healthy and delicious side dish. Cream of Rice can also be used to make gluten-free bread, cakes, and cookies. You can use it as a substitute for regular flour in many recipes, which makes it a great option for people who follow a gluten-free diet.

Cooking Tips for Cream of Rice

To cook Cream of Rice, use a ratio of 1 cup of water or milk to 3 tablespoons of dry cereal. Bring the liquid to a boil, then stir in the Cream of Rice. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cereal is thick and creamy. Avoid overcooking the Cream of Rice, as it can become too thick and grainy. If the cereal seems too thick, add a little more liquid and stir until it reaches the desired consistency. Additionally, be sure to stir the cereal frequently while it is cooking to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Making Cream of Rice More Nutritious

To add more nutrition to your Cream of Rice, consider mixing it with nuts or seeds, or topping it with fresh fruit or a drizzle of honey. You can also add a scoop of protein powder or a tablespoon of almond butter for an extra protein boost. If you are looking to add more fiber to your diet, consider mixing your Cream of Rice with rolled oats or flaxseed meal. This will add more texture to the cereal and increase its fiber content.

Cream of Rice vs Other Hot Cereals

Cream of Rice is similar to other hot cereals such as oatmeal, Cream of Wheat, and grits. However, Cream of Rice is naturally gluten-free, which makes it a good option for people with gluten intolerances. Additionally, Cream of Rice is very low in fat and calories compared to other hot cereals. It is also easy to digest, which makes it a great option for people with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues.

Serving Suggestions for Cream of Rice

Cream of Rice can be served in many ways. Some people like to eat it plain, with just a little salt and butter. Others like to add sugar, honey, or maple syrup for a sweeter flavor. Cut up fresh fruit, such as bananas or strawberries, and sprinkle them on top of your Cream of Rice for added nutrition and flavor. You can also add nuts or seeds, such as chopped almonds or pumpkin seeds, for added crunch and protein.