Why should not wash rice and pulses repeatedly?

You're right to be cautious about repeatedly washing rice and pulses! While it seems intuitive to rinse them thoroughly, overdoing it can actually lead to nutrient loss and a less flavorful dish. Here's why:

1. Nutrient Loss:

* Water-soluble Vitamins: Rice and pulses contain important water-soluble vitamins like thiamin, riboflavin, and niacin. Excessive washing can leach these vitamins into the water, diminishing their nutritional value.

* Minerals: Similarly, minerals like iron, magnesium, and zinc can be lost during repeated washing.

2. Texture and Flavor:

* Starchy Loss: Rice and pulses have a natural starch layer that helps bind them together and create a desired texture. Excessive washing can strip away this starch, resulting in mushy rice or disintegrating lentils.

* Flavor Dilution: The starch layer also contributes to flavor. Washing too much can remove natural flavors and leave your dishes bland.

3. Time and Effort:

* Waste of Water: Repeated rinsing means using more water, contributing to water waste.

How much is too much?

* Rice: One or two gentle rinses are sufficient to remove excess starch and debris.

* Pulses: A quick rinse is usually enough. You can soak them overnight for better texture and faster cooking time, but no need to rinse them again after soaking.

Exceptions:

* Brown Rice: Brown rice has a bran layer that can make it gritty. Washing it more thoroughly is recommended to remove the bran.

* Certain Recipes: Some recipes, like risotto, require multiple rinses to achieve a specific texture.

In summary:

Instead of focusing on repeated washing, prioritize using fresh, high-quality rice and pulses, and practice gentle rinsing. This will ensure you retain the most nutrients and flavor while still enjoying a clean and delicious meal.