What Is Calrose Rice And What Is The Best Way To Cook It?
BY CLAIRE REDDEN
Calrose rice is a type of soft, slightly sticky rice with a mild taste. It's considered the "founding" grain for the Californian rice industry, hence the "Cal" in its name.
Calrose makes up 85% of California's rice production. This medium-grain rice is great when served alongside your favorite protein and veggies, or even in homemade sushi rolls.
For the best way to prepare this rice, rinse and drain 1 and a 1/2 cups until the water runs clear. Add the rice to a pot with two cups of water and soak for 15 to 30 minutes.
Bring the water to a boil on medium heat, then turn it down to the lowest setting and cover. Let the rice simmer for 20 minutes, then steam off the heat for another 10 minutes.
Calrose rice makes great fried rice, and its light flavor complements curries, stews, paellas, and poke bowls. Its sticky texture is also excellent in chicken and rice soup.
Though it's not as common, brown Calrose rice is sold in some stores. It's hearty and chewy with a nutty taste, and has the added benefits of more fiber and antioxidants.