“Healthier Rice Option!?"

Unveiling the Wonders of Embryo (Germ) White Rice - Haiga-mai Style

In the realm of rice varieties, a distinctive player has emerged – Embryo (Germ) White Rice Style. This refined processing method sets it apart from conventional white rice, introducing a meticulous balance of nutritional richness and captivating texture. Let's uncover the features and benefits that make Embryo (Germ) White Rice Style - HAIGA-MAI a unique and health-conscious choice.

• Improved Nutritional Value:

  • By intentionally retaining a portion of the embryo, Embryo (Germ) White Rice Style surpasses regular white rice in nutritional value. Packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and lipids, this rice variety promises a holistic and enriching dietary experience.

• Enhanced Texture and Flavour:

• Very close to a white rice, you can taste subtle aroma accompanies every chew, offering a distinctive texture and flavour profile that could elevates the dining experience beyond the ordinary white rice encounter.

• Unique Production Methods:

• Crafting Embryo (Germ) White Rice Style involves a symphony of unique manufacturing techniques. From distinct rice varieties to carefully curated production methods, each aspect contributes to a rice encounter with nuances that vary among producers and manufacturers.

• Health-Conscious Choice:

• Positioned as an ally for health-conscious individuals, Embryo (Germ) White Rice Style stands out for its anticipated surge in nutritional value. A mindful choice for those prioritising a health-conscious diet, this rice variety bridges the gap between regular white rice and its brown counterpart.

I like brown rice for some different reasons, though my sons are not fond of it. They do prefer 100% white rice for its rich sweetness and softness. However, I had a battle between rich and tasty white rice and more nutritious rice for them. Eventually I came to my answer which was Haiga-mai (Embryo(germ) white rice). 

I then found this wonderful ‘rice polisher’ !!! that I can highly recommend to you. All you need to do is buy brown rice and whenever you need non-brown rice, you polish freshly in your kitchen :) Yum yum yum….

Yamamoto denki, Seimaiki (Rice polisher), Home use, Made in Japan, MICHIBA KITCHEN PRODUCT Takumi-mai Red MB-RC52R

You can of course polish rice in 'Seimaijo' which is usually located outside of a home centre. However if you can polish the rice at home, it is much easier and fresher. Moreover, you do not need to store different types of rice i.e. brown rice… white rice… embryo white rice etc… at home. All you need is a bag of brown rice.

This machine offers 10 different types of polishing styles - white rice, polished rice at 80/70/60/50/40/30/20 percent, brown rice with embryo in 80/70/60/50/40/30/20 percent, and unwashed rice - Musenmai. I haven’t tried them all but tried a few different types to find the best fit for my boys.

My boys accepted 70% polished embryo germ white rice style in the end, which preserving the nutrient-rich embryo germ, a "treasure trove" of Vitamin B1 and B.E. more than a white rice.

To be honest with you here, there is a downside with this machine. It is a noise. It is like a nosy mixer but other than that, it does the excellent work.

"Ibaraki's Finest Rice Varieties"

Nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Ibaraki Prefecture lies a hidden gem for food enthusiasts and rice connoisseurs alike. Blessed with fertile soil and a climate that nurtures, Ibaraki has rightfully earned its reputation as a producer of delectable rice. Ibaraki is the 4th biggest rice production in Japan and the most in Kanto area. Popular Ibaraki brands are listed listed below: 

• Tsuya-hime(つや姫): The Glossy Maestro

• As one of Ibaraki's iconic rice varieties, Tsuya-hime takes the spotlight with its glossy grains and a delightful stickiness. Versatile in its application, this rice adds a touch of elegance to classics like onigiri, sushi, and an array of rice-based culinary creations.

• Hitome-bore (ひとめぼれ): A Sweet Symphony

• Known for its enchanting sweetness and a slightly chewy texture, Hitome-bore is a crowd favourite. The aromatic allure of freshly cooked Hitome-bore rice elevates every meal, making it a staple in the kitchens of those who appreciate culinary finesse.

• Kinu-musume (きぬむすめ): Embracing Simplicity

• Kinu-musume offers a departure from stickiness, embracing a smooth mouthfeel and plump, fluffy grains. Perfect for those who prefer simplicity, this rice variety brings a unique charm to the table, inviting you to savour the essence of unadorned, yet delightful rice.

I hope you can find or already know your nearest Rice shop (KOME-YA) to buy some fresh brown rice (GEN-MAI) locally cropped. Let you shall try different varieties of polishing styles to find your best option!