We’ve all been there: rinsing rice before cooking it, watching that cloudy water swirl down the drain without a second thought. But what if we told you that milky liquid you’ve been tossing away is actually a goldmine of goodness?
Rice water is more than just a byproduct – it’s packed with nutrients, minerals, and starch that can be repurposed in some pretty clever (and sustainable) ways. Here’s why you should stop dumping it and start making the most of it!
Let’s look at some ways to use that cloudy water.
Natural Fertilizer
Plants love rice water! It acts as a gentle, nutrient-rich drink for houseplants and garden greens. The starches help beneficial microbes thrive in the soil, giving your plant babies a nice little boost.
Just let the rice water cool to room temperature before using, and avoid adding salt or spices to it!
Skin and hair
In the world of DIY beauty, rice water is a not-so-hidden gem. It’s been used for centuries in many Asian cultures as a toner and hair rinse.
According to Healthline, “Rice water contains substances known to help protect and repair your skin.” In fact, “it’s said to soothe and tone your skin, and even improve different skin conditions.”
The website suggests rice water can be used to:
- Lighten skin.
- Improve skin damage from sun.
- Combat dry skin.
- Repair dry hair
- Clear up blemishes caused by skin conditions like eczema, and help it heal.
Just remember to patch test if you’ve got sensitive skin!
Cooking
That starchy rice rinse water can go right back into your food! Use it to:
- Thicken soups or stews
- Make a silky base for sauces
- Cook other grains or legumes
It adds a mild richness and helps cut back on food waste.
Cleaning
Surprisingly, rice water can also be used as a natural cleaner – especially for washing greasy dishes or dirty hands after gardening. The starch helps lift grime, and it’s gentle on skin and surfaces.
Storage
Store rice water in a clean jar or bottle in the fridge, and use it within five days. For beauty use, you can even ferment it by leaving it out at room temperature for a day or two (it gets more potent this way).
Quick Tips
- Always use unsalted, unseasoned water for reuse.
- Organic rice is best if you’re using the water for beauty or plants.
- If you’re cooking the rice, don’t use the final water you’ve boiled it in—just the rinse water.
Turns out, the humble rice rinse water is a tiny treasure trove of benefits – from glowing skin to thriving plants to flavor-packed meals. So next time you rinse your rice, think twice before pouring it down the drain. You might just be washing away something really useful!
