Orzo rice is not actually rice; it’s a type of pasta shaped like grains of rice. It’s made from semolina flour and is commonly used in Mediterranean and Italian dishes.
How do you cook orzo rice?
Orzo can be cooked like pasta (boiled in salted water) or pilaf-style (toasted in butter or oil, then simmered with broth).
Can you cook orzo in a rice cooker?
Yes, orzo can be cooked in a rice cooker by using a 2:1 water-to-pasta ratio and selecting the “White Rice” setting. It takes about 15-20 minutes.
What dishes can you make with orzo rice?
Orzo is versatile and can be used in salads, soups, casseroles, risotto-style dishes, and as a side dish with herbs and seasonings.
Is orzo gluten-free?
No, traditional orzo is made from wheat flour and contains gluten. Gluten-free versions are available but must be specifically labeled.
What’s the difference between orzo and regular rice?
Orzo is pasta made from wheat flour, while rice is a grain. Orzo has a softer texture when cooked compared to the chewy texture of rice.
Can you make homemade orzo?
Yes, homemade orzo can be made by mixing pasta dough (flour, eggs, salt), rolling it out thinly, and cutting it into small rice-shaped pieces.
