Are you looking for a filling and delicious meal? One pack of cooked sticky rice weighing 200g provides 320 calories. It is a staple food in many Asian countries and is known by different names such as glutinous rice or sweet rice.

Sticky rice is a good source of carbohydrates which act as fuel for the body to perform various functions. In addition to carbohydrates, it also contains micronutrients like vitamins and minerals that are essential for our well-being.

In this article, we'll give you an insight into the nutritional value, health benefits, cooking methods, and side effects of consuming cooked sticky rice.

What is Cooked Sticky Rice?

Cooked sticky rice is a type of rice that becomes sticky and glutinous in texture when cooked. It is a major staple food in Southeast Asian and East Asian countries like Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, China, and Japan. It is often used to make desserts, snacks, and main dishes like sushi, rice cakes, and dumplings. Sticky rice gets its sticky texture from the presence of amylopectin, a type of starch that has a high proportion of branched chains. This type of starch does not get easily digested by enzymes, making it slower to break down and more suitable for producing a sticky consistency.

Nutritional Value of Cooked Sticky Rice

A serving of 1 pack of cooked sticky rice weighing 200g contains approximately: - calories: 320 - Carbohydrates: 71g

Health Benefits of Cooked Sticky Rice

Consuming cooked sticky rice can offer numerous health benefits, such as: - Rich in essential nutrients: Sticky rice contains various micronutrients like thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, iron, and magnesium which are crucial for maintaining overall health. - Lowers the risk of chronic diseases: The consumption of sticky rice is associated with a reduced risk of developing chronic diseases like diabetes, cancer, and heart disease.

How to Cook Sticky Rice?

Cooking sticky rice requires a slightly different method compared to regular rice. Here's how you can cook sticky rice: - Rinse the rice thoroughly in cold water to remove excess starch. - Soak the rice in water for at least 1 hour or overnight, depending on the type of rice.

Different Types of Sticky Rice

There are many different types of sticky rice, including: - Glutinous rice: Also known as sweet rice or sticky rice, this is the most common type of sticky rice. - Black sticky rice: Also known as forbidden rice, this type of rice is popular in Thai and Chinese cuisine and is known for its nutty flavor and antioxidant properties.

Sticky Rice vs Regular Rice

Sticky rice and regular rice differ in terms of texture, taste, and cooking methods. - Texture: Sticky rice is stickier and chewier in texture compared to regular rice. - Taste: Sticky rice has a slightly sweet, nutty flavor compared to regular rice which has a more neutral taste.

Sticky Rice Recipes

Sticky rice can be used in various recipes, some of which include: - Mango sticky rice: A popular Thai dessert made with sticky rice, coconut milk, and ripe mangoes. - Onigiri: A Japanese snack made with sticky rice, filled with savory or sweet ingredients, and wrapped in seaweed.

Sticky Rice as a Gluten-Free Option

For people with gluten intolerance or celiac disease, sticky rice is a good gluten-free alternative to regular wheat-based foods. This is because sticky rice does not contain gluten, making it easy to digest and suitable for those with gluten sensitivity.

Is Cooked Sticky Rice Good for Weight Loss?

Cooked sticky rice can be included in a weight loss diet plan if consumed in moderation. While sticky rice contains carbohydrates that provide energy, it also contains some fiber that can keep you feeling fuller for longer periods. However, overconsumption of sticky rice can lead to weight gain due to its high calorie content.

Side Effects of Consuming Cooked Sticky Rice

While consuming cooked sticky rice is generally safe, it may have some side effects in certain individuals such as: - Spike in blood sugar levels: Sticky rice has a high glycemic index which means it can cause a sudden spike in blood sugar levels. - Allergic reactions: Some people may develop an allergic reaction to sticky rice, leading to symptoms like itching, swelling, and rashes.