Rice serves as a primary energy source for billions of people around the world, and it is one of the most widely consumed staple foods in the world. This food is rich in carbohydrates and provides essential nutrients, making it an essential part of many diets. However, the rice calorie content varies depending on the type, processing method, and preparation. Making informed dietary choices can be made easier when you know which rice varieties contain what number of calories, no matter whether you are trying to lose weight, gain muscle, or maintain a balanced diet.
Calories in Different Types of Rice
The calorie content of rice varies based on its type, processing, and cooking method. Additionally, below is a comparison of the most popular rice varieties and their calorie content per 100 grams.
Rice Type
Calories (Uncooked)
Calories (Cooked)
White Rice
365 kcal
130 kcal
Brown Rice
360 kcal
111 kcal
Basmati Rice
350 kcal
120 kcal
Jasmine Rice
356 kcal
130 kcal
Wild Rice
357 kcal
101 kcal
Parboiled Rice
350 kcal
123 kcal
Black Rice
335 kcal
150 kcal
Red Rice
360 kcal
110 kcal
Note: Cooked rice has fewer calories per 100 grams because it absorbs water, increasing its weight.
Cooked vs. Uncooked Rice: How Calories Change
The water in rice absorbs calories when it is cooked, so per 100 grams, rice has fewer calories. However, the total calories consumed depend on the portion size. For example:
1 cup (200g) of cooked white rice contains approximately 260 calories.
1 cup (200g) of cooked brown rice contains around 222 calories.
Nutritional Benefits of Rice Beyond Calories
Rice provides more than just energy it contains essential nutrients beneficial for health. Here’s a quick overview:
Nutrient
White Rice (Cooked)
Brown Rice (Cooked)
Carbohydrates
28g
23g
Protein
2.7g
2.6g
Fiber
0.4g
1.8g
Fat
0.3g
0.9g
Iron
0.2mg
0.8mg
Magnesium
12mg
43mg
Note: Values are per 100g of cooked rice. Brown rice generally contains more fiber and minerals than white rice.
Brown rice and wild rice are healthier alternatives as they retain more fiber and micronutrients, supporting digestion and heart health.
How Rice Fits into a Healthy Diet?
Rice can be a part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. Here are some healthy eating tips:
1
Portion Control
Stick to ½ to 1 cup of cooked rice per meal. Use measuring cups initially to train your eye for proper portions.
2
Protein Pairing
Combine rice with lean meats, beans, or tofu to create balanced meals with complete proteins.
3
Whole Grains First
Opt for brown, wild, or red rice which provide 2-3x more fiber and nutrients than white rice.
4
Smart Cooking Methods
Use minimal oil (1 tsp per cup max). Steam or boil instead of frying to reduce unnecessary calories.
Low-Calorie Rice Alternatives
If you want to reduce your calorie intake, consider these alternatives:
Rice Alternative
Calories per 100g (Cooked)
Cauliflower Rice
25 kcal
Shirataki Rice
10 kcal
Quinoa
120 kcal
Barley
123 kcal
Note: Calorie values are approximate and may vary by preparation method. Shirataki and cauliflower rice are significantly lower in calories than traditional rice.
Rice Calorie Calculator
Using this rice calorie calculator, you can find out how many calories each variety of rice contains. Moreover, you can select the type of rice you want and enter how much you plan to consume.
Rice Calorie Calculator
Nutritional Information
Conclusion
Rice is an essential part of many diets, but its calorie content varies based on type and preparation. For a healthier choice, opt for whole-grain varieties like brown or wild rice and practice portion control. By making informed choices, you can enjoy rice while maintaining a balanced diet.
Looking for high-quality rice? Shah Enterprises provides premium rice varieties that meet international standards. Contact us for bulk purchases and export solutions!