Rice is probably the most consumed type of grain in the world today, with research showing that more than six billion people eat rice around the globe. In fact, studies suggest that the average person consumes at least 300 pounds of rice annually, on a global scale. The consumption of rice is even higher in countries where it is actually harvested.
Naturally, in various cultures within Asia, 90 percent of the population eats rice daily. In China, rice is a staple, consumed as often as three times a day.
What many people don’t realize, however, is that rice also plays a significant role in many cultural ceremonies and celebrations. A prevalent example of this is at wedding ceremonies, where rice is thrown on the bride and groom to bring good luck to the newlyweds. In fact, rice is so beloved that some individuals have paid homage to it through songs and poetry.
Where Does Rice Come From?
There seems to be some debate about the origin of rice. Many believe it originated in India, but evidence points to Thailand as the place where rice was first discovered, around 4000 BC. Rice is a type of grass that resembles a common weed. It thrives in areas with heavy rainfall, floods, upland regions, and well-irrigated locations.
Interestingly, the region where rice is harvested can determine the types of rice produced. For example, rice grown in irrigated areas benefits from a consistent water supply. In flood-prone regions like Asia, three types of rice can be cultivated: “deep water” rice (grown at a depth of more than 60 centimeters), “floating” rice, and “tidal wetland” rice. Many people don’t realize that rice can grow submerged in water and can reach heights of two to five feet.
The journey from rice grass to grocery shelves is actually quite extensive. It begins with the grain, which is extracted from the plant’s leaf blades. Once the grain ripens from emerald green to a rich golden yellow, it is placed in the sun to dry. Afterward, it undergoes a milling process, turning it into the white, shiny rice we’re familiar with. The average rice crop takes up to 200 days to mature, while the breeding process can take as long as 10 years.
One reason rice is so adored worldwide is because it is easy to prepare, inexpensive, and packed with nutritional benefits. It can be cooked by boiling it in water for just 15 minutes, but it can also be baked, steamed, or fried to create different taste sensations. Some people even enjoy eating rice raw, mixed with other ingredients.
Additionally, rice is easily digestible, high in carbohydrates, and low in sodium. It contains many vitamins, minerals, and proteins. Rice also comes in many different varieties—more than 120,000 different types are grown worldwide! Examples include Basmati, which is aromatic and grown in both India and Pakistan, and glutinous rice, a sticky, sweet rice typically used for desserts. Brown rice is another example, known for its nutty taste, while Jasmine rice is aromatic and exclusively grown in Thailand.
Whatever your particular preference may be, rice has become a staple that will likely remain with us for many years to come.
