Brown rice pasta is a gluten-free alternative made from ground whole-grain brown rice and water. It contains fiber, complex carbohydrates, and essential minerals. The dough is shaped into traditional pasta forms and dried. It’s ideal for those with gluten sensitivities, offering a nutty flavor and firm texture when cooked properly.
Brown rice pasta has a mild, slightly nutty flavor with a chewy, firm texture. It pairs well with rich sauces, stir-fries, or light olive oil-based dressings. Commonly used in gluten-free dishes, it absorbs flavors well and works in pasta salads, soups, and hearty vegetable or protein-based meals.
Brown Rice Pasta Ingredients:
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 1–2 tsp salt (for boiling pasta)
- Water (enough to boil pasta)
- 2–3 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- ½ cup boiled beans
- ½ cup corn
- Salt (to taste)
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- Badia seasoning (to taste)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Bring a large bowl of water to a boil in a pan.
Add penne pasta along with 1–2 teaspoons of salt.
Boil until the pasta is tender and soft to bite.
Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables
In a clean pan, heat olive oil over a medium flame.
Add minced garlic and sauté until it turns slightly brown.
Stir in turmeric powder and mix well with the garlic.
Add chopped onions, boiled beans, and corn.
Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes, or until they start to wilt.
Season the mixture with salt to taste.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Broth
Add the drained penne pasta to the pan with sautéed vegetables.
Mix everything thoroughly until the pasta is well-coated.
Pour in 1 cup of vegetable broth and warm it just enough to combine.
Remove the pan from the heat immediately to avoid evaporating the broth.
Season and Serve
Sprinkle Badia seasoning to taste.
Give the pasta a final toss and serve hot.
FAQs About Brown Rice Pasta
Is brown rice pasta gluten-free?
Brown rice pasta is a healthier option than wheat pasta, as it is higher in fiber, protein, and nutrients such as B vitamins and minerals like magnesium and selenium.
Can I substitute brown rice pasta for wheat pasta in any recipe?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice pasta for wheat pasta in any recipe, but keep in mind that the cooking time may vary, and the texture and taste may be slightly different.
Tips for best Brown Rice Pasta
Brown rice pasta tends to clump when cooked, so you’ll need to use a lot of water to prevent it from sticking.
To avoid the pasta from sticking together, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the cooking water.
Brown rice pasta can turn mushy and unpleasant if overcooked. It’s important to keep tasting it to make sure it’s at the right doneness.
Since brown rice pasta is often thinner than wheat pasta, it requires a more gentle approach during the cooking and stirring processes.
To avoid the spaghetti from sticking together in a cold salad, rinse the brown rice with cold water and toss it with a bit of olive oil or dressing.
Brown rice pasta is versatile enough to be used in everything from stir-fries and salads to casseroles and the classic spaghetti and meatballs. Try out various toppings and sauces to determine what works best for you.
Brown rice flour can be made at home by pulverizing brown rice in a blender or food processor until it resembles a fine powder.
How To Serve
There is a wide variety of tasty preparations for brown rice pasta. Some creative ways to serve brown rice pasta are provided below.
Tossing brown rice pasta with your favorite sauce makes it easy to serve. Tomato, pesto, or Alfredo sauces work well. Brown rice pasta’s nutty taste complements many sauces.
Add vegetables to brown rice pasta. For flavor, add roasted red peppers, cherry tomatoes, sautéed spinach, or kale to the spaghetti.
Brown rice pasta works in casseroles like baked ziti and lasagna. For a satisfying meal, top pasta with sauce, cheese, and veggies.
Cold pasta salads can use brown rice pasta. For a refreshing and healthful lunch or dinner, toss it with your favorite dressing, vegetables, and protein.
Brown rice pasta enhances soups and stews. It makes a hearty soup or stew.