Rice Recipes:
1. Hamburger-Rice Skillet
2. Pork Sausage-Seasoned Rice
3. Savannah Pork Chops and Rice

Rice is a great pantry staple. It is a perfect and versatile base for main dishes because it will stand up to the demands of frying, boiling, simmering, baking, and reheating. Here are some suggestions for cooking with rice. We also include some ideas for sprucing up the flavor of this favorite starch. Try our recipe for Hamburger-Rice Skillet to see just how satisfying rice can be.

• Store white rice in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year; store brown rice for up to 6 months.
• Refrigerate or freeze rice for longer storage in warm climates.
• Cooking rice that has been stored for a long time may require more liquid and a longer simmering time due to loss of natural moisture.
• Test rice for doneness by biting into it. It should be firm but tender.
• Don't lift the lid of the pot to peek inside at cooking rice. This releases valuable steam and slows the cooking process.

Substitute one of the following for all or part of the cooking water: apple, orange, or pineapple juices; chicken, vegetable, or beef stocks; wine, beer, or sherry; cream or milk. Label and freeze small bags of leftover rice, and reheat when needed (1-cup bags are great for solo dinners).

Boost the flavor and appearance of reheated rice by adding one or more of the following.

• chopped dates and nuts
• sliced mushrooms, green onions, broccoli, onion, asparagus, green beans, or celery
• chopped ham, bacon, pork, or seafood (For fried rice, just add an egg, a bit of oil, and soy sauce; scramble in a wok or large skillet. Add chopped meat of choice.)
• chopped cilantro, parsley, or other fresh herbs; minced fresh ginger or garlic
• crushed pineapple, sliced mandarin oranges, coarsely chopped red or green apples, or raisins
• sliced ripe or pimiento-stuffed olives, dried tomatoes
• grated Romano or Parmesan cheese or crumbled feta cheese