The sacred month of Ramadan is a journey of spiritual reflection, faith, and self-discipline. As fasting is observed from sunrise to sunset, the meals eaten at Suhoor and Iftar are crucial for nourishing the body. Since even water is not allowed during the fasting period, the food we choose becomes extremely important to maintain the overall hydration levels. For this purpose, rice is considered the most versatile and suitable choice.
During the long hours of fasting, the body needs fluids to function properly, hence the importance of adequate hydration. Remember to plan meals that help conserve energy and maintain fluid balance in the body. Simple grains like organic Basmati Rice or brown Basmati Rice play an invaluable role in such situations.
Rice maintains a steady hydration
Rice absorbs water while getting cooked, so when it’s eaten, water also gets consumed. This makes rice an effective means of hydration. On average, one cup of rice needs double the amount of water to get cooked; that retained liquid becomes part of your meal, supplying you with required fluids. This is very helpful as after fasting the body is unable to accept lots of water at once. The gradual intake of fluids through food becomes as easier way to replenish the body.
For your Ramadan meals, choosing a premium grain like Royal Basmati Rice is perfect. It has all the right attributes to keep you hydrated and satiated while being easy on the digestive system.
Hydrating dishes to pair with Rice
The versatility of Basmati Rice is incredible. From simple steamed rice, a veggie pilaf, an elaborate Biryani, or a sumptuous bowl of kheer, rice offers hydration through delicious and nourishing meals.
1. Comforting soups and stews
Starting iftar with a hot, hearty bowl of soup is a gentle way to rehydrate the body and prepare the stomach for more food. To make the soup more filling, add cooked rice to a simple vegetable or lentil soup, making the dish more complete. In many communities, observers eat fluffy rice along with a flavorful stew that allows the grains to soak up the nutrient-rich gravy.
2. Pack a punch with additional hydrating ingredients
The presence of certain items in the meal is a healthy choice after hours of fasting. Like yogurt, if it is homemade, then nothing like that. It’s refreshing, packed with probiotics and protein, and excellent for digestion. Add grated cucumber to a large, fresh bowl of yogurt, add black salt, cumin powder, and voila, you have a side dish that will provide fluids, energy and electrolytes to replenish your system.
3. Cool and refreshing Rice Salad
Mix cooked and cooled rice, preferably Basmati Rice, as salads need fluffy rice, with water-rich vegetables like onions, tomatoes, and bell peppers. Add fresh garden herbs, a squeeze of lemon, and a drizzle of olive oil. Your stomach and spirit will both love you.
4. Water-rich vegetables in curries
In most of the iftar and suhoor meals, curries have a staple role. Choosing vegetables with high water content, such as zucchini, cauliflower, cabbage, and spinach, in the curries supplies adequate amounts of fiber and hydration. When served along with freshly cooked fluffy rice, one gets a balanced and a nourishing meal.
A balanced meal for an energetic Ramadan
Even a single day of fasting lowers energy and fluid levels. Just imagine, the kind of energy one needs during Ramadan to support both the journey of faith and physical well-being. Choosing a premium rice grain like Royal Basmati Rice for your Ramadan meals, you not only take create delicious dishes but also maintain hydration and energy levels.
Let this Ramadan be a balanced journey for both body, mind, and soul.
