Breakfast Brown Rice

Makes 4 servings

Brown rice makes a delicious warm breakfast that will jump-start your day. This recipe calls for soaking the rice overnight. Soaking the rice overnight reduces the normal cooking time considerably, making it convenient for everyday breakfasts. You can pack your lunch, take a shower, or read the paper while it’s steaming. Serve this dish plain or with vanilla soy- or rice milk or a dollop of soy yogurt, if desired.

1 cup dry brown rice
2 cups water
¹/₄ teaspoon salt (optional)
1 ripe banana, sliced
1 cup chopped fresh fruit or berries
¹/₄ cup chopped walnuts
¹/₄ cup raw sunflower or pumpkin seeds
1 fortified vanilla soy- or rice milk or soy yogurt (optional)

Place rice in a large wire mesh strainer and rinse well under running water, stirring with your fingers. Place in a large saucepan with the water. Cover and let soak 8 to 22 hours. Do not drain. In the morning, add salt, if using, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to very low, cover, and cook until tender, about 20 to 30 minutes, or until water is absorbed. If time permits, remove from heat and let rest, covered, 5 to 10 minutes. Top each serving with some of the fruit, nuts, and seeds.

Per 1/2-cup serving