Rice is a staple. Whether it is a side dish, an ingredient in a bowl or another element in a recipe, the simple grain can be used in a variety of ways. Unfortunately, burnt rice is not appetizing but this cooking hack can save that food from going straight into the bin.
Cooking hacks come in all forms. From celebrity chefs simplifying ingredient prep to transforming a classic restaurant menu into a new dish, people long to know these secrets. Additionally, ideas that repurpose or keep food from being wasted are equally important.
The Genius Way to Save Burnt Rice.
In a Reddit thread titled, “Grandma’s Weirdest Cooking Hack That Actually Works,” the first hack had people surprised. Although people might debate the idea that grandma knows best, this simple idea can save people money and not waste food.
According to the user, fixing burnt rice is easy. The hack says to “Put a slice of bread on top of the pot for 10 minutes. The bread absorbs the burnt smell/taste like magic.”
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Although it sounds too good to be true, the Reddit user has used it multiple times with much success. To clarify, it is best to use plain, white bread. It will not necessarily save the rice stuck to the bottom of the pan, but it will make most of it edible.
The reason why this idea works is because bread has a spongy texture. That absorbent texture can soak up the burnt smell. It is similar to how a slice of bread can keep brown sugar from hardening.
Even though proper rice cooking would avoid the issue, knowing a simple solution is just as important. That bread is good for more than just another sandwich.
Stop Throwing Away Burnt Rice.
While the slice of bread hack works, it is not the only way to save burnt rice. Onion skins will remove the burnt smell, too. It is best to use the thin, outer onion layers. Simply layer the onions on top of the cooked rice and wait a few minutes. The smell will disappear.
If the rice starts to burn during the cooking process, potatoes can save it. The starch in the potatoes will absorb the burnt smell.
In both scenarios, cooks need to remember one key element. Never stir the rice. That choice will ensure that the whole pot is wasted.
Related: This ‘Brilliant’ Sandwich Hack Keeps Bread from Going Soggy
