Health Benefits of Rice Vinegar
Rice vinegar is a type of vinegar that is made by fermenting rice and then, through a second bacteria activated fermentation process, into the acid we know as rice vinegar. Rice vinegar is strong in flavour and has an abundant of amino acids thus, offering numerous health benefits.
Rice vinegar is not suitable for preserving and pickling foods as it has less acidity compared to the other types of vinegar but it is widely used as a condiment. Generally, there are two chief types of rice vinegar – seasoned and unseasoned. The unseasoned variant gives the maximum benefits.
Nutritional Facts
Rice vinegar is low in calories and sodium. It has a high content of amino acids and acetic acid. One tablespoon of Rice Vinegar, that is approximately 15 gm offers 2.7 calories. It contains 0.3 mg of sodium and potassium each.
Potential Health Benefits of Rice vinegar…
1/6. Strengthens the immune system
1. The high content of amino acids present in rice vinegar is important for immune function.
2. The amino acid content controls the levels of free radicals and fights against the harmful effects of free radicals, thus decreasing free radical damage.
2/6. Boosts digestive health
1. The acetic acid present in rice vinegar soothes the gut inflammation by encouraging normal peristaltic motion.
2. Acetic acid content helps absorb more nutrients from the food thus, enabling the body to absorb more calcium, vitamins, and potassium from the food. Thereby, boosting digestive health.
3. Rice vinegar eases constipation as the acetic acid content activates bowel movements.
3/6. Boosts energy levels
1. Amino acid content and other active ingredients present in rice vinegar help combat tiredness, fatigue and boosts metabolism.
2. Amino acids help in preventing the bloodstream from developing an excess of lactic acid. Lactic acid causes stiffness, fatigue, and irritability.
4/6. Promotes heart health
1. The low content of sodium in rice vinegar helps reduce the risk of high blood pressure.
2. Rice vinegar averts the formation of fatty peroxide in the body thus, reducing plaque formation in the arteries and blood vessels. Hence, the risk of atherosclerosis, strokes, and heart attacks are reduced.
3. Certain acids present inrice vinegar avoid the oxidisation of LDL cholesterol particles thus, reducing the levels of bad cholesterol.
5/6. Benefits the skin
1. The astringent properties of rice vinegar help in skin tightening and prevention of infections. It helps tackle acne.
2. Rice vinegar enhances skin glow and soothes inflammation. It can be used as a facial toner.
6/6. Other patenting benefits…
Apart from the health benefits mentioned above, rice vinegar also produces a few more such as, reduces the risk of diabetes, osteoporosis, cancer, and heart disease; improves calcium absorption; controls the blood glucose levels; eases the heat tiredness;eliminates harmful bacteria, acts as an effective liver tonic; keeps weight in check, and controls blood sugar levels.
Rice vinegar is not suitable for preserving and pickling foods as it has less acidity compared to the other types of vinegar but it is widely used as a condiment.
How to use Rice Vinegar?
Rice vinegar can be utilised in cooking, in several different ways. Some of them are as follows:
- In stir-fries.
- In cocktails.
- In Asian sauces.
- In Asian dressings
- In making sushi rice.
- For making sushi rice.
- To prepare Salmon Nigiri.
- As a topping for French fries.
- Sprinkled overcooked vegetables.
- As a spicy ingredient in marinades.
- In making Peach and Ginger Shrub.
- In the pickling of several vegetables.
- Added to soups, stews, and stir-fries.
- Added to salad dressings or other dips.
- Added to salads and meat-based dishes.
How to make Peach and Ginger Shrub?
Take 1 medium peach, peeled and chopped, ⅓ cup unseasoned rice vinegar, ⅓ cup (about 2½ oz.) dry gin, 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, and ½ teaspoon grated peeled fresh ginger.
Process all these ingredients in a blender until smooth for approximately 30 seconds.
Stir in ½ cup carbonated water. Serve shrub over ice, garnished with a fresh peach slice.