It has been a while since I posted a new article. Anyway, I am pretty excited as this is the first blog of 2022.
Jumping right in!!!
When Indians think about simple food or preparation to relax their systems- ‘Dal Bhat‘ is the dish that comes to mind. Rice is such an integral part of Indian cuisine and diet. That one will not think that the Origin of the *cereal grain is still debatable.
Rice and its debatable Origin
At least three if not more theories revolve around its Origin: Oryza glaberrima (African Rice)– is believed to have its origins in West Africa- and was discovered some 3000-3500 years ago.
However, Asian Rice (Oryza Sativa) is available in abundance. And it was first discovered in China. Due to its overall acceptance and domestication, the African version is used merely for rituals. Researchers found Rice along the Yangtze River in Pearl Valley, South China. {Reference}
As per popular belief, around 2000 B.C., the Chinese introduced the monocot (grass and grass-like flowering plant) from their wetlands. However, some excavations have proved that the Harappan Civilization used sustainable methods to grow the crop. Hence these discoveries are of the view that Rice might have already been a part of the Indian Subcontinent, 4000 years ago. Moreover, it was grown in the summer season in the Indus Valley Civilization.
An astonishing fact is that humans eat around 95% of the Rice produced. So, it is the most consumed staple food throughout the world, with Asia, especially China, India, and Indonesia topping the list of highest consumers.
Fun Facts
-Rice is a tropical plant and grows well where rainfall is sufficient. Although through proper irrigation and water management facilities, cultivation in areas receiving less rainfall is possible.
-It requires a hot and humid climate.
-India is the largest producer of Rice.
-Closer home, the eastern state of West Bengal is the leading producer of the *Kharif crop.
-Rice requires *paddy fields as it is a semi-aquatic crop. And therefore, it grows best in submerged conditions.
-The mountains are cut to form rice terraces, for example, Luzon, Philippines.
A wide variety of Rice used the world over:
Let’s start with the most obvious one,
White – readily available and widely used in most Indian households.
Brown: This one is gaining immense popularity as it is considered healthy. Especially for those who wish to lose weight faster.
Valencia: is used for making Paella.
Jasmine- the best introduction to this variety is the famous dessert Mango and Sticky Rice (one of my favorites).
And who can forget Basmati- a variety used in the famous Biryani in India. And even in a lot of dishes pan Asia. The list is endless. There is purple Thai, or red, or Sushi rice, and many such varieties.
Rice is a necessity in most Indian houses.
Especially in South and East India. The Bengali community is well-known for having Fish and Rice as their primary meals. As in my previous blogs, I have confessed before you of being a food-lover. I have a soft corner for this lovely, aromatic grain, in short, medium, and long sizes. Rice is a preferred grain for International as well as Indian cuisines such as Chinese, Hyderabadi, Bengali, etc.
And with the current concept of eating Rice to lose weight gaining popularity- it is like a gift from heaven.
Some Definitions
Cereal Grain: cereal grains are the seeds that come from grass-like barley, oats, wheat, maize, etc.
Kharif crops: are also called monsoon crops or autumn crops. They are cultivated in the Sub Continent during its monsoon season.
Paddy Fields are flooded fields of arable land used to grow semiaquatic crops. More Info!!!
That’s all from me!!! Stay tuned for the next post!!!
