When you’re short on time and want to keep your dinner healthy, rice is probably the first thing that comes to mind.
But is there an alternative if you’re looking to cut down on your rice intake?
While there are many other options that you can choose from when it comes to replacing rice, it’s not always easy to find.
That’s where we come in! Read on to find out more about the different alternatives to rice with chilli, so you can make the right choice for your individual needs and lifestyle.
This is quite a difficult switch up, so were really gonna have to think out side the box here.
Instead of serving the usual bowl of steamed white rice with a little bit of chilli sauce, you can easily switch things up. In addition to reducing your carbohydrate intake, this will also help you to eat more healthily overall. There are many alternatives to rice that you can use instead.
For example, you could serve up whole-wheat pasta or brown rice instead. You could also try serving up corn on the cob or sweet potato with your favourite toppings. There are also plenty of different ways to season your food too.
For example, you could add some freshly chopped herbs and spices to your dish or serve your meal with a side salad or green beans. Many people who want to cut down on their carbohydrate intake are tempted to simply stop eating rice and pasta altogether. However, this is not always the best idea.
Another great alternative is spaghetti squash. Not only is it lower in carbs than regular spaghetti pasta, but it also has a light and airy texture that makes it the perfect replacement for rice. It’s also very easy to cook, making it an ideal option for those who are short on time or cooking skills.
In addition to these options, there are also many other ways to cut out rice from your diet. Though rice may be a staple in many households, there are plenty of alternatives that can take its place. By experimenting with different types of vegetables and grains, you can find a healthy alternative that can take the place of rice at little cost
Soy and Tofu
Soy and tofu have been used as vegetarian alternatives to meat for thousands of years. They are both high in protein and easy to incorporate into your diet.
To make soy and tofu more appealing, flavor is added in many forms. Soy is known for its strong flavor, so if you’re using it as a meat or fish substitute, you may want to add seasonings such as minced garlic, ginger, or lemon to come closer to the taste of the real thing.
When you’re using soy as a meat substitute, you’ll want to be careful not to go overboard. Soy is high in protein, but it’s also high in sodium, potassium, and calories.
If you’re looking to cut back on the sodium in your diet, consider adding more soy to your meals, but don’t rely on it as a sole source of protein.
Brown Rice
Brown rice, also known as whole grain rice, is a good source of fiber and nutrients. It’s easy to prepare and has a mild flavor that can be enhanced with seasonings.
Because it is not genetically modified, it is also a good choice when you’re looking for a healthier version of traditional rice.
Brown rice is usually sold in bulk, in large bags or in boxes. You will need a brown rice cooker or a pot with a high-quality rice poacher to prepare it.
Should you substitute brown rice for white rice in your diet? Probably not, as brown rice is more nutritious than white rice, but it can be a good option for people who want to reduce the amount of rice they consume.
Quinoa
Quinoa is a seed that has grown in popularity as an alternative to rice. It is gluten-free and high in protein.
You can use either red or white quinoa, although the latter is usually more nutritious.
When it comes to preparing quinoa, you can either purchase it in a package or make your own. The latter is usually healthier since it involves boiling the quinoa in water, instead of using the entire ½ cup of cooking water that comes with the packaged version.
Quinoa should be cooked until the grains become translucent, with a crunchy texture. It can be eaten alone or added to soups, salads, or casseroles.
Depending on your individual needs, you can also substitute it for other whole grains in your diet.
Amaranth
Amaranth is known as a “supergrain” because of its rich dietary benefits. It’s a good source of protein, fiber, and rich in vitamins and minerals.
Amaranth is an ancient grain that has been used in South America as a food source for hundreds of years. It can be eaten as a porridge or added to salads, sandwiches, and casseroles.
Like quinoa, amaranth can be bought in either red or white varieties. It has a similar texture to quinoa and can be prepared in much the same way.
Amaranth can be used as a substitute for rice, couscous, or tapioca when you’re on a budget and short on time.
Wholemeal Pasta
You can also try wholemeal pastas instead of regular white pastas. These pastas are made from whole grains and also contain dietary fiber.
You can usually find wholemeal pastas in health food stores or online. They are usually sold in boxes or bags, and can be used just like normal pasta.
You can add butter, olive oil, or another type of oil to the boiling water when you cook the pasta. This will enhance the flavor of the wholemeal pasta and make it more appealing to the taste buds.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a healthier alternative to regular white potatoes. They contain vitamins A and B, as well as vitamin C and E.
Sweet potatoes can be eaten as a snack, in casseroles, or added to soups and stews. You can also bake sweet potatoes and use them as a healthy alternative to rice or potatoes in baked dishes.
You can add sweet potatoes to your daily diet when you don’t have much time. They provide nutrients and are filling, so you don’t feel too weighed down.
Oats
Oats are a whole grain and provide a fiber that can help regulate your digestive system. A half cup of oats provides roughly 3 grams of fiber and 6 grams of protein.
Since they are gluten-free, oats are a good option for people with digestive disorders such as IBS. Oats can be consumed as a snack, in porridge, or added to soups, salads, and smoothies.
You can also bake oat flour and use it as a substitute for regular flour in baked goods such as scones, cookies, or muffins.
Baked Beans
Baked beans are an English dish that is made from beans, tomatoes, and molasses. They are high in vitamins and minerals and provide protein.
You can buy baked beans in cans or make your own. If you are canning your own, you’ll need a pressure cooker. Most beans need to be soaked overnight before you cook them, so plan accordingly.
Baked Eggs
Baked eggs are a great way to take advantage of the protein in eggs without having to cook the usual breakfast items.
To make a baked egg, you will need a large glass or plastic bowl, a mixing bowl, and a spoon. In the glass or plastic bowl, place one or two eggs, depending on the size of the bowl.
In the mixing bowl, mix together one tablespoon of baking soda with one tablespoon of vinegar. Then, place the vinegar mixture on the eggs and wait for about one hour.
After an hour, use the glass or plastic bowl to rinse the baking soda away. Then, use the same bowl to wash the vinegar away, and place the eggs in the refrigerator to chill.
Summary
Rice is a common food and can be consumed as a main course, side dish, or snack. The following are some of the alternative ways you can replace rice with chilli when you’re short on time.
Soy and tofu have been used as vegetarian alternatives to meat for thousands of years. Brown rice is usually sold in bulk, in large bags or in boxes.
Quinoa is a seed that has grown in popularity as an alternative to rice. Amaranth is a “supergrain” that has been used in South America as a food source for hundreds of years.
Wholemeal pasta is usually sold in bulk, in large bags or in boxes. Sweet potatoes are a healthier alternative to regular white potatoes. Oats are a whole grain and provide a fiber that can help regulate your digestive system.
Baked beans are an English dish that is made from beans, tomatoes, and molasses. Baked eggs are a great way to take advantage of the protein in eggs without having to cook the usual breakfast items.