Is couscous better than rice for weight loss? While couscous and white rice have almost the same amount of calories per 100 grams, couscous contains more protein and higher amounts of vitamins and minerals so can be considered a healthier option in those departments.
While neither ingredient is considered low-carb, they do share their differences. Compared to brown and white rice, couscous usually contains slightly lower carbs per serving. However, when comparing our Traditional Pearl Couscous with our Wild and Brown Rice Mix, the number of carbohydrates is the same.
Here are just a few of the reasons why Basmati is best and why it's worth choosing Basmati over ordinary rice. Basmati is gluten-free and low in fat. In addition to containing all eight essential amino acids and folic acid, it's very low in sodium and cholesterol-free.
Nutrition Comparison
Calorie-wise, couscous comes out on top. One cup of prepared couscous has 176 calories, compared to 216 calories in brown rice. Couscous also contains 2 grams of fiber per cup and 6 grams of protein. Brown rice, on the other hand, contains 3.5 and 5 grams, respectively.
Couscous is actually superior to rice and quinoa when it comes to grains as it has less than 200 calories in each cup. Which is less than 10% of the daily calorie intake suggested for adults. This makes it the perfect alternative for people trying to lose weight mainly through dieting.
Cauliflower rice is undoubtedly one of the most popular low calorie and low carb rice substitutes thanks to its similar look and texture to white rice. You can also try cabbage rice, broccoli rice, and zucchini rice to similar effect.
Compared to couscous, quinoa has stronger anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. With 7 percent fewer calories per 100 grams of cooked couscous than quinoa, it is healthier for weight loss. Every 100 grams of cooked quinoa has 120 calories. Every 100 grams of cooked couscous has 112 calories.
Yes, you can eat basmati rice daily. There is no any known health concern with eating basmati rice in comparison to other variety.
Basmati rice contains all eight essential amino acids, folic acid and is very low in sodium. Also, it has no cholesterol and a low to medium glycemic index which means energy is released at a slower, steadier rate leading to a more balanced level of energy.
Basmati rice supports your weight loss efforts
Good news is that the Basmati rice has fewer calories in a serving than its grainy cousins. You can reduce the amount of calorie intake by 20 calories with just one serving. Eating three portions of Basmati rice a week, you are already saving 60 calories per week.
Couscous is a dried and cracked pasta made from semolina, like tiny pasta, meaning it cooks at lightning speed. It has a nutty, sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with stews, braises, and grilled or roasted veggies.
Is couscous a superfood? Couscous falls into the category of super grains, which are all those foods that among grains and cereals, stand out for their nutritious qualities. Rich in fibre, and protein and low in fat, couscous also contains excellent amounts of minerals such as magnesium, iron and zinc.
For lower calorie and carbohydrate content, rice comes out top. But if protein and fibre is your aim, pasta wins over rice. That said, both can play a part in a healthy diet - and as the nutritional differences are quite small, it often comes down to which you would prefer.
STICKY RICE
When activated by hot water, amylopectin breaks down easily. Sticky rice has negligible amounts of nutrients and is not a good source of fiber, vitamins or minerals. It's even unhealthier when paired with rich sauces or fried foods.
Wholegrain Basmati rice has the lowest GI (glycaemic index) of all rice types, which means once digested it releases its energy slowly keeping blood sugar levels more stable, which is a crucial part of diabetes management.
Quinoa and rice are comparable in terms of calories and fiber content. They're both nutritious ingredients that can complement a well-rounded diet, but quinoa has the edge. It is a complete protein, while brown rice only contains a few of the essential amino acids.
The five best substitutes for couscous are short-grain rice, quinoa, sorghum, millet, and cooked rice. Quinoa is a great choice if you're looking for a healthier option. It's high in protein and fiber and has a nutty flavor that goes well with most dishes.
It is commonly agreed that foods containing simple carbohydrates with no fiber or those that are rich in protein with no carbohydrates are absorbed rapidly and are considered easy to digest foods. This is where couscous comes in.