Do you cook groats or rice in bags? You better stop doing that!

Groats and rice cooked in bags lose many micro- and macroelements. In addition, they absorb many harmful substances contained in foil packaging. This is mainly about bisphenol A (BPA). It is a chemical compound from the phenol group used in the production of plastics. Once it penetrates the human body, it disrupts its functioning on many levels. It disrupts hormonal balance, damages the liver and promotes the multiplication of free radicals. As a result, it accelerates cell aging processes and increases the risk of many different diseases (e.g. atherosclerosis, heart attack, stroke, hypertension, cancer and neurodegenerative diseases). It may also contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes, obesity and even infertility.

Why is it better to stop cooking groats and rice in bags?

There are not only health reasons but also purely practical reasons to refrain from preparing groats or rice in bags. Thanks to this simple procedure, you can more easily measure the portion of the product needed to prepare a given dish. At the same time, you will reduce the risk of wasting food and water. Groats or rice cooked “loosely” will absorb all the liquid. This will make them much tastier, especially if you pour broth over the grains instead of water. Additionally, you will save a lot of time and money. Products sold without bags are usually cheaper than those in foil packaging. Their cost is even a few zlotys lower.

Moreover, by buying groats or rice sold “in bulk”, you will use less plastic, and thus contribute to relieving the ecosystem and the planet. It is estimated that Europeans generate over 35 kilograms of plastic waste per year. Most of them were not recycled. Poland is among the infamous countries that process the least amount of waste.

How to cook groats or rice without a bag?

Contrary to appearances, cooking groats or rice without a bag is not difficult. First, rinse the product under running water to remove any minor impurities. Then pour water or other liquid (for example broth) over it. The general proportion is 1:2. There are two portions of liquid for one serving of groats or rice. Add a small pinch of salt and cook covered. When the liquid begins to bubble, reduce the burner power and leave the pot on the stove for about 5-15 minutes. Then remove it from the burner and serve the dish. You can add various herbs and spices to cooked groats or rice to enrich their taste, for example rosemary, turmeric, cumin, bay leaf, etc.