Dried beans and rice have long been staple ingredients for many people around the world. Not only are these items inexpensive, easy to obtain and nutritious, but they can also be stored for a long period of time, making them an excellent choice for keeping on hand in case of an emergency.
For long term storage, white rice is generally preferred. While brown rice has more nutrition, because it retains the hull, it has natural oils that can go rancid if stored for too long. Brown rice is a great option for day-to-day use. It can be stored in the freezer until it is needed, then kept in the refrigerator once opened.
Anyone interested in storing rice for more than a few months should consider the advantages of white rice. White rice is available in many different forms, including long grain, medium grain, short grain, parboiled and precooked. It takes less time to cook than brown rice, uses less water in the cooking process and can easily be added to just about any dish you are making.
It can help make soup, vegetables and meat dishes go farther. Additionally, when combined with beans, it forms a complete protein that can allow you to have a highly nutritious meal without the need to add meat. This not only offers an excellent nutritional advantage for anyone preparing for a disaster or emergency, but it can also help stretch a family’s food budget.
There are many different types of beans available and they can combine with rice to make a staple rice and bean meal. You can easily store dried beans in a one-gallon or five-gallon bucket with a tight fitting lid. Beans can be reconstituted and used in cooking Mexican, Indian, American and Italian dishes. In fact, they are easily adapted to a wide range of recipes. Beans can also be ground to make a bean flour or sprouted to provide a nutritious vegetable.
Stocking up on dry beans and rice can provide a long term storage option that is packed with flavor and nutrition.
Follow us for more helpful articles for your home, kitchen and dining room.
The Family Dining Room 
Very good article! Love the picture!