Production process for instant rice blocks and instant rice blocks

Abstract

The present invention describes a process for producing a food product, more specifically a ready-to-eat instant rice block that can be reconstituted with a uniquely crispy and sensorially appealing texture in a reduced preparation time, either by conventional cooking or microwave heating. The present process comprises the steps of dosing the rice grains into individual portions; continuous cooking in a two-compartment tunnel with constant water exchange; block molding and compaction; dehydration by frying; and cooling and packaging.