I’ve been saying it and will continue to say that we all need to have a very ample food storage program. In these modern times with rising food prices and stagnant income, putting back food for the long term for multiple people is extremely costly. Many believe it’s only a matter of time before we experience the Next Great Depression so it’s crucial to establish a reliable and budget-friendly food storage program. Among the various options available, rice emerges as a versatile and cost-effective staple that can provide sustenance during challenging times. Not only is rice affordable, but it’s also a calorie-dense food that can be stored for long periods of time. Let’s explore why rice should be a major component of a budget-friendly food storage program, along with three simple and inexpensive rice-based recipes. Additionally, we’ll discuss how to store rice for the long term.
Why Rice?
- Affordability: One of the primary reasons rice should be the cornerstone of a budget-friendly food storage program is its affordability. Rice is a staple crop that is widely available and produced in abundance around the world. Its low cost per pound makes it an excellent choice for those on a tight budget. 20-pound bags of rice can be found for around $10. That’s a lot of rice!
- Nutritional Value: Rice is a nutrient-dense grain that offers essential carbohydrates, protein, and several key vitamins and minerals. It serves as a valuable source of energy and can contribute to a balanced diet. By incorporating rice into your food storage, you ensure that you have access to a vital component of a healthy meal during times of uncertainty.
- Versatility: Rice is incredibly versatile and can be used in a wide range of dishes, making it an essential ingredient for creating diverse meals which is beneficial in a food storage program. It can serve as a base for stir-fries, soups, stews, casseroles, and even desserts.
- Storage Life: Rice can be stored for decades and then eaten without the worry of it going bad.
Budget-Friendly Rice Recipes
Vegetable Fried Rice:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers, etc.)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for a minute until fragrant.
- Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for a few minutes until tender.
- Add the cooked rice and stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes, ensuring the rice is well coated with the vegetables.
- Drizzle soy sauce over the mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Continue to stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes, then remove from heat. Serve hot.
Rice and Beans:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup cooked beans (black beans, kidney beans, or any variety)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté the onions and garlic until they become translucent and fragrant.
- Add the cooked rice and beans to the skillet and mix well.
- Sprinkle cumin powder, salt, and pepper over the mixture, stirring to incorporate the flavors.
- Cook for an additional 5 minutes, ensuring the ingredients are heated through.
- Remove from heat and serve as a wholesome and nutritious meal.
Rice Pudding:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 2 cups milk
- 4 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon for garnish
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, combine the cooked rice, milk, and sugar.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Stir frequently to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 20-25 minutes until the mixture thickens, and the rice becomes creamy.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and allow the rice pudding to cool slightly.
- Serve warm or chilled, sprinkled with a dash of ground cinnamon for added flavor.
Long-Term Storage of Rice:
To maximize the shelf life of rice and ensure its long-term storage, consider the following:
- Choose the right container: Opt for food-grade containers that are airtight and moisture-proof. Mason jars, Mylar bags, or plastic buckets with tight-fitting lids are suitable options. Clean and dry soft drink bottles can also be used.
- Keep it cool and dry: Store rice in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and heat sources. Aim for a consistent temperature of around 70°F (21°C) to maintain quality.
- Protection from pests: To safeguard against pests, you can add oxygen absorbers or use diatomaceous earth as a natural pest repellent. This will help prevent the infestation of weevils or other insects. Prior to mylar packing rice, throwing it in a freezer for a couple days will kill off any insects that may be hiding within the container.
- Rotation and monitoring: For rice stored in the packages in which they are sold, implement a rotation system by using older stocks of rice first to ensure freshness. Regularly inspect stored rice for signs of spoilage or insects and discard any “compromised” batches.
- Mylar: The most popular and effective method for long-term storage of rice is placing it in mylar bags with oxygen absorbers.
Conclusion:
In times of inflation and food shortages, establishing a budget-friendly food storage program becomes essential for ensuring a steady supply of food. Rice is the ideal choice due to its affordability, nutritional value, and versatility in various recipes. By incorporating rice into your food storage, you can create a diverse range of meals very inexpensively.
With the insanity that seems to continue to occur in the world, having a large food storage program including rice just makes sense.