2. HOW TO PROPERLY COOK PASTA, RICE AND OTHER GRAIN PRODUCTS
Preparing Grains
HOW TO PROPERLY COOK
PASTA, RICE AND OTHER GRAIN PRODUCTS

3. Preparing Pasta Bring water to a RAPID BOIL
Estimate amount of pasta needed and slowly add to water: 2 oz. dry= Approximately 1 C prepared
3. Need to break pasta? Try this...

4. Breaking Pasta

5. Tips to Prevent Pasta from Sticking
Use plenty of water- Fill saucepan at least ½ full
Add salt to water:
Prevents sticking
Adds flavor
Note: Will also increase boiling point =
Takes longer to boil but once at boiling state, lessen cooking time
Stir frequently during cooking

6. Cooking Pasta Al Denté: Firm to the bite Cook uncovered:
Helps pasta circulate so it cooks evenly
PASTA IS DONE WHEN:
Al Denté: Firm to the bite
Time varies: 5-25 min, depends on thickness
If the pasta will be further cooked in a recipe, cook for a shortened period of time
Fresh pasta will cook in a fraction of the time

7. Straining Pasta Drain in a strainer or colander
Never rinse pasta after cooking:
You will LOSE NUTRIENTS & REMOVE STARCH from pasta that would stick to the accompanying sauce

8. Preparing Rice and Other Grains

9. Preparing Rice (not instant)
Typically: 1 c rice to 1 ¼ - 1 ½ c water (May need to rinse before cooking)
Add rice, salt, & optional fat (such as olive oil or butter) to water, bring to a boil UNCOVERED
Reduce heat, COVER, & simmer up to 30 minutes
(Follow package instructions for time)
Only stir according to directions
Scrapes starch making it sticky
Done when tender but firm, no water left

10. Instant Rice (ex. Minute Rice)
Uses steam to cook
Equal parts of water to rice
Boil water FIRST
Remove from heat
Add rice and cover (off heat), wait 5 minutes

11. Breakfast Cereals/Oatmeal
Look for high fiber and low sugar
Need extra sweetness?
Natural fruit (fresh or dried)
Honey, syrup

12. Storing Grains Includes wheat germ, flax seed, etc. Uncooked:
Cool, dry place with air-tight containers
Opened packages of whole grains:
Includes wheat germ, flax seed, etc.
Refrigerate upon package suggestions (may contain oil and spoil quickly)
Uncooked/cooked fresh pasta and cooked dried pasta: Refrigerate
Breads:
Room temperature or freeze (refrigerate = stale more quickly)

13. Choosing Grains Packet
Assignment
Choosing Grains Packet