Rice Flour

• Making gluten-free baked goods: Rice flour is commonly used as a primary ingredient in gluten-free baking recipes, offering a light and delicate crumb in cakes, muffins, cookies, and breads. It is often combined with other gluten-free flours and binding agents like xanthan gum to achieve the desired texture and structure.- Thickening sauces and soups: Rice flour serves as an excellent thickening agent for sauces, soups, and gravies, creating a smooth and velvety consistency without the glutenous texture of wheat flour. Simply whisk a small amount of rice flour with cold water to create a slurry before adding it to the hot liquid.- Creating crispy coatings for fried foods: Rice flour provides a light and crispy coating when used to bread chicken, fish, vegetables, or tofu before frying. Its delicate texture allows for a golden-brown crust without becoming heavy or soggy.- Preparing rice noodles and dumplings: Rice flour is the main component in making various types of rice noodles, such as banh pho and rice vermicelli. It also contributes to the chewy and slightly sticky texture of rice dumplings, like mochi and tangyuan.- Making Asian desserts and snacks: Rice flour is frequently used in Asian desserts and snacks such as Japanese mochi, Vietnamese banh xeo (savory crepes), and Korean tteokbokki (rice cakes), providing their characteristic textures and flavors.- Dusting surfaces for rolling dough: Rice flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour to dust surfaces when rolling out dough, especially if the dough is gluten-free or sticky. It prevents sticking without adding unwanted gluten or altering the flavor significantly.

• May be easier to digest for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Provides a source of carbohydrates for energy.
• Can be a good source of manganese, which supports bone health and metabolism.
• May contribute to a feeling of fullness, potentially aiding in weight management.
• Offers a versatile base for gluten-free baking and cooking.

Rice flour is best stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place, like a pantry. This will help prevent it from absorbing moisture and odors, which can affect its quality and taste. For extended storage, especially in warm or humid climates, consider refrigerating or freezing the rice flour. When stored properly, rice flour can last for several months.