Day 5

Brown rice

Brown rice is my comfort food on a cleanse. Brown rice is like porridge in a bowl. The word porridge reminds me of the children’s fairy tale Goldilocks and the Three Bears. It’s the classic story about the girl who discovers her favorite bowl of porridge after the third try. That part of the tale – when she finds the perfect bowl – is a metaphor for the comfort in finding the perfect blend of ingredients to soothe and nourish, just when you need it.

As I dig deeper into the days of my cleanse, I live for those moments of connecting with just the right kind of food that nourishes and gives me what my body is craving, cleanly. Brown rice, made just the right way, with just the right ingredients does that for me. [See my recipe below.] Its warmth and smoothness coat my tummy in a healing way when I need to press pause on the harshness of the fruit and veggie ruffage that captivates much of my waking cleanse hours.

Nutrients

I think most people are aware that brown rice is higher in nutrients than white rice. If you’re a fan of exercising your jawbones, then you’ll be pleased to know that the brown rice texture is chewier and the individual grains have more body than the white version. Highlights of the best brown rice qualities include:

– High in fiber for a feeling of fullness

– Low glycemic index helps to regulate blood sugar levels 

– Rich source of plant protein, B vitamins, and minerals like magnesium and selenium

– Heart healthy – many reduce cholesterol levels

– Versatile base for many meals.

The Oldways Whole Grain Council notes, “brown rice has more than twice as much fiber, potassium, vitamin B6, and magnesium as refined white rice.” It also notes that consuming brown rice regularly can reduce the risk of diabetes, may ward off some forms of cancer and its darker color makes it full of antioxidants. 

I’d say the nutritional reasons alone make the brown version the right rice to choose when your meal includes the grain as a side dish! No need to get too fancy, either. Here’s a tasty, easy to prep and cook recipe that’s my cleanse staple. 

Recipe

Brown Rice with Sautéed Onion & Garlic

The liberal use of olive oil gives this recipe and the final dish – that “porridge in a bowl,” comfort-food quality I mentioned at the top of this post.

EVOO

1 whole yellow onion, chopped

3-4 gloves garlic, minced

2 cups brown rice

4+ cups water (adjust according to rice absorption & desired tenderness)

In a stainless steel, 4-quart stock pot or other large soup-type pan, coat the surface with EVOO. On a medium-to-high burner, heat briefly then add onion and garlic. Sauté until tender. Add the rice and water. Bring to a boil, with a high burner. Reduce heat to low. Simmer 45 minutes or until tender. Enjoy!

Cover and simmer for approximately 45 minutes. Enjoy!

María Felicia’s 2023 New Year Body… Cleanse – Day 5

Written by Maria Felicia Kelley
Disclaimer: Maria Felicia Kelley is not a medical doctor. The cleanse and fasting benefits she discusses in this post are derived from her own experiences and observations. Individuals should consult their own healthcare providers when eliminating foods from their diets.
@thenorthcountymoms | @1MariaFelicia 
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