It is unlikely that when buying rice in a store, people think about its origin. Meanwhile, to collect a good harvest of this grain crop, you need to make a lot of work, moreover, it is done manually.
Growing rice
Rice is traditionally grown in moist soil. However, this was not always the case. It originally grew up in dry fields. Only later did the Chinese discover that if a plant is planted in moist soil, its yield will increase 20 times. Water protects rice crops from cold and heat, it also destroys weeds and maintains the level of natural fertilizers that the farmers themselves maintain.
Rice cultivation begins with the cultivation of the field. It must be said that machines are still not used in the rice fields, and the land is still plowed with a plow. It is mixed with a lot of water, turning it into a homogeneous mass.
Rice grains are pre-planted in special "greenhouses", since if they are immediately planted on a flooded field, many of them may not germinate. Seedlings 10 cm tall are planted in the field. Moreover, there is no need to plant them in the ground with your hands. You just need to throw them into the water, where they take root on their own.
Rice takes 5-7 months to ripen. True, recently, many varieties have been developed that can ripen in just 3 months. When the sprouts rise 50-60 cm, the rice begins to bloom. Its inflorescences consist of 70 tiny flowers that bloom in the early morning. Their sweet and delicate aroma is very similar to the smell of cooked rice.
When flowering ends, the very grains are formed, which are subsequently eaten. The harvested rice is dried directly on the roads or near houses, forming an unusual rice "carpet".
Storage and eating
Rice has a very good and convenient property - unlike many other crops, it can grow in the same place for many years. Freshly harvested rice lasts well for a year and then begins to turn yellow. Purchased in a store, it can be stored in a sealed box for up to 3 years.
For countries such as China, India, Korea, rice is the staple food. It is impossible to imagine Russian cuisine without it. Among the favorite dishes in Russia are pilaf, rice porridge, pies with rice and eggs.
Rice is very beneficial for the human body. It is an irreplaceable source of complex carbohydrates, fiber, proteins, B vitamins and minerals. For weight loss, it is best to eat brown rice dishes. In addition, such a diet is the prevention of stomach ulcers and cancer.
