Rice Flour

Rice Flour is a fine powder made from ground rice and is a staple ingredient in many Asian cuisines. It is used year-round and is essential for gluten-free cooking. Rice Flour is commonly used for making noodles, dumplings, and a variety of gluten-free breads and desserts. It is also used as a thickening agent in sauces and soups.

Rice Flour Synonyms

Rice powder
ground rice

Rice Flour Substitutes

Cornstarch

Different Forms/Types of Rice Flour

Brown Rice Flour

Made from whole grain brown rice, this flour has a nuttier flavor and is higher in nutritional value compared to white rice flour.

White Rice Flour

A fine, powdery flour made from ground white rice, commonly used for gluten-free baking and as a thickening agent.

Sprouted Rice Flour

Produced from sprouted rice, this flour is believed to be more digestible and nutritious.

Glutinous Rice Flour

Also known as sweet rice flour, it is made from sticky rice and is essential for making mochi and other Asian desserts.

How to Choose Rice Flour

When choosing rice flour, look for a fine, consistent texture without any lumps or discoloration. The packaging should be intact and sealed properly to prevent moisture from entering. For brown rice flour, freshness is particularly important as the oils from the bran can go rancid; thus, a 'use by' or 'best before' date is a good indicator. If you're looking for glutinous rice flour, ensure that it's labeled as such, as it has different properties than regular rice flour.

Cooking/Prep Tips for Rice Flour

Rice flour, a fine powder made from ground rice, is a versatile ingredient in both savory and sweet dishes. For intermediate and expert home cooks, it's important to understand that rice flour behaves differently than wheat flour due to the absence of gluten. This means it doesn't provide the same elasticity or structure, making it ideal for certain applications like batters and as a thickening agent. When using rice flour, consider the desired texture of your dish; it can create a light, crispy coating for fried foods or a delicate, tender crumb in baked goods. Hydration is key—rice flour often requires more liquid than wheat flour, and resting batters or doughs allows the grains to absorb moisture for improved texture. Additionally, rice flour can be used to prevent sticking, acting as a dusting powder for surfaces and molds when working with sticky ingredients or doughs.

Shelf Life of Rice Flour

Rice flour should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. An airtight container is ideal to prevent moisture and pests. White and glutinous rice flours have a longer shelf life and can be stored for several months. Brown rice flour, due to its higher oil content, can go rancid more quickly and is best kept in the refrigerator or freezer, where it can last for up to 6 months. Always check for any off smells or changes in texture as signs that the flour may no longer be good to use.

Recommended Brands for Rice Flour

Brown Rice Flour: Arrowhead Mills

White Rice Flour: Bob's Red Mill

Sprouted Rice Flour: To Your Health Sprouted Flour Co.

Glutinous Rice Flour: Koda Farms – Mochiko

Cooking Techniques for Rice Flour

Frying: Rice flour is commonly used in batters for frying because it results in a light, crispy crust. Mix rice flour with cold water or another liquid to create a smooth batter, and dip your ingredients before frying in hot oil.

Steaming: In many Asian cuisines, rice flour is used to make steamed cakes or dumplings. The flour provides a chewy, tender texture when steamed, which is distinct from baked goods.

Thickening: Rice flour can act as a gluten-free thickening agent for sauces, soups, and gravies. It creates a smooth, translucent finish and doesn't impart a strong flavor. Whisk rice flour into a small amount of cold liquid before adding it to your hot mixture to prevent clumping.

Popular Rice Flour Recipes

Rice Flour Pancakes
Steamed Rice Cakes
Crispy Fried Chicken with Rice Flour Batter

Rice Flour Nutritional Information (100g)

fat: 1.42 g
fiber: 2.4 g
sugar: 0.12 g
protein: 5.95 g
calories: 366 kcal
carbohydrates: 80.13 g

Flavor Combinations

Rice flour pairs well with a variety of flavors and ingredients. It complements dairy products like milk and cheese, which can enhance the tenderness of baked goods. In savory dishes, it works well with soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger for Asian-inspired recipes. For sweet applications, rice flour pairs beautifully with vanilla, coconut, and fruit-based flavors. It also combines well with other gluten-free flours like almond or coconut flour to create desired textures in gluten-free baking.

Allergen Information

Rice Flour is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe alternative for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. However, cross-contamination with gluten-containing products can occur during processing, so it's important to look for certified gluten-free labels if necessary.

Ingredient Comparisons

Cornstarch vs Rice Flour