If you have questions, we have answers! Below you'll find the answers to common questions about Rice-A-Roni® products, history, and preparation. If you can't find the information you're looking for, please visit the Contact Us section of this site.
Product Information
- How long can I store a box of PASTA RONI® or RICE-A-RONI?
- Check the Best Before Date on the bottom of the package. For the best flavor and quality, use the product before this date
- What is vermicelli?
- Vermicelli is a type of pasta similar to spaghetti but shorter and thinner.
- What is orzo?
- Orzo is small, rice-shaped pasta.
- What’s the difference between brown rice and white rice?
- Brown rice and white rice (or parboiled rice) are essentially the same -- both types of rice have the same proteins. The difference is that the white rice has been processed and the outer bran has been removed.
- Are Rice-A-Roni and Pasta Roni gluten free?
- We understand that individuals sensitive to gluten cannot digest even trace amounts of gluten. Since so many of our products contain grain ingredients and many products are made in the same facility, we cannot guarantee that any particular product is entirely free of gluten.
Preparation Information
- Why does the rice and pasta need to be browned first?
- Most of the RICE-A-RONI products contain a rice and pasta mixture. The pasta is either rosamaria (rice-shaped pasta) or cut vermicelli (similar to spaghetti, but thinner). Browning the rice-pasta mixture keeps the rice from becoming mushy and sticky. It also adds a pleasant, delicate toasted flavor.
- When I made RICE-A-RONI, my pasta didn’t brown. Why?
- Lower fat spreads usually contain more water than margarine or butter and will result in uneven browning. If the rice-pasta mixture doesn’t saute well, try using a different margarine, butter or oil.
- What is the best way to saute the rice and pasta mixture?
- Choose a non-stick or regular 10-inch skillet; cast iron skillets are not recommended because the pasta is more likely to burn. Add the margarine or butter and the RICE-A-RONI rice-pasta mixture to the skillet. Cook over medium heat and stir constantly with a wooden spoon as the margarine melts and coats the bottom of the skillet. Lower the heat and remove the skillet from the burner if the pasta starts to brown too quickly. Continue to stir until at least half of the rice changes color and at least half of the pasta becomes a rich golden brown. The saute step usually takes about 4 to 6 minutes.
- Margarine and butter: What can I substitute?
- RICE-A-RONI: Margarine and butter provide more flavor than oils, but olive oil, vegetable oil, or shortening could certainly be substituted. Coating the pan with cooking spray is also an option, although the texture of the rice may not be quite as fluffy. We do not recommend low fat margarine spreads (less than 56% fat to be precise) because the margarine may burn faster when sauteing and the RICE-A-RONI will turn out gummy or mushy.
PASTA RONI: Margarine and butter provide more flavor than oils, but olive oil, vegetable oil, or shortening could certainly be substituted. We do not recommend margarine spreads with less than 56% fat. - When using oil as a substitute, how much should I use?
- For oil preparation, simply halve the amount of butter or margarine with the equivalent of oil. For example, two tablespoons of butter or margarine would equal one tablespoon of oil. However, this will change the nutritional information slightly.
- Can I use less margarine or butter than the amount listed in the directions?
- RICE-A-RONI: The amount of margarine or butter can be reduced from the amount listed in the directions, but we don’t recommend leaving it out completely. The flavor will be a little weaker and the texture will be a little more gummy.
PASTA RONI: The “Less Fat Directions” provide the best flavor and texture. The percentage of calories from fat is always less than or equal 30% using the “Less Fat Directions.” - The directions say to use milk. What kind of milk can I use?
- PASTA RONI: The Nutrition Facts chart values are calculated based on the use of 2% fat milk. Whole milk will make the creamiest PASTA RONI. Skim milk, 1% fat milk or Lactaid will make it less rich and creamy.
- Can I make Rice-A-Roni in a rice cooker or steamer?
- Our products are optimized for range top and microwave preparation methods so we cannot guarantee the results with various rice cookers and other appliances.
- Can Rice-A-Roni be made in the oven?
- No. The saute step is important, and it isn't possible to brown the rice in the oven. Therefore, we do not recommend making Rice-A-Roni in the oven.
- There is a range of cooking time in the microwave directions. What amount of time do I use?
- Our preparation directions are tested and developed in 600, 700, 800 and 900 watt microwave ovens. The lower the wattage of the oven, the longer the cook time will be for the product. When using microwave directions for the first time, use the lower time in the range and add additional time in one-minute increments as needed.
- Why does it say “microwaveable round glass casserole?”
- Glass is recommended because not all plastic and ceramic containers are safe and functional for the microwave. Food in round containers heat more evenly than square or rectangular containers.
- How can I know if my bowl is microwaveable?
- Microwave manufacturers recommend the following test. Add 1-cup of room temperature water to the bowl. Microwave on HIGH for 1 minute. Touch the bowl surface above the level of the water. If the bowl is hot, the bowl is not recommended for use in the microwave. If the bowl is cool, the bowl is acceptable for use in the microwave. Glass that is too thin might not be able to withstand high temperatures and may crack. Do not use a plastic bowl since it will melt.
- Can I prepare two boxes at a time?
- Follow the range top directions, but use double the amount of added ingredients listed in the directions for one box (margarine and water, for example). Use the sauce mix and pasta from both of the boxes. Cook for the amount of time listed in the directions for one box. The cooking time may need to be adjusted by 5 minutes. Microwave preparation is not recommended for more than one package at a time. Preparing more than two boxes at a time also is not recommended.
- What if I live at a high altitude?
- At elevations above 3,500 feet, water boils at a lower temperature and evaporates more quickly than it does at sea level. Our high altitude directions are developed in Denver, Colorado (elevation 5,280 feet) and are always listed on the package if any adjustment is needed.
- What is the best way to store and reheat?
- Store: Leftover product should be refrigerated in a tightly sealed storage container or zip lock plastic bag. For best results, store products in your refrigerator for no more than two days. After this time, we cannot guarantee freshness
Reheat: Add 1 to 3 tablespoons water for each cup of leftover product. Stir gently while cold. Reheat in the microwave oven. Rice-A-Roni also can be reheated over medium low heat in a saucepan on the stove, stirring occasionally
Freeze: Freezing is not recommended, as freezing changes the texture of the rice unfavorably
Rice-A-Roni Express
- What happens if you don’t open the pouch before cooking in the microwave?
- Steam pressure will build up as the high-moisture product is heated in the sealed pouch. The pouch will become puffed and could explode in the microwave.
- Why is the pouch really puffy?
- Pouches may be slightly puffy but should be “squeezable.” If the pouch is excessively swollen and is hard to the touch, it may contain icrobiological spoilage and should NOT be consumed.
- Is the pouch recyclable?
- The pouch is constructed of multiple layers of different types of plastic which cannot be easily separated. Therefore, the pouch cannot be recycled.
- Can I use it after the Best Before Date
- For best quality, taste and freshness, we recommend that product be consumed by the Best Before Date.
History
- When was the first RICE-A-RONI made?
- You can learn about the family that founded Rice-A-Roni in the About Us by clicking here.
- When was the first PASTA RONI product made?
- You can learn about the history of Rice-A-Roni and Pasta Roni products by clicking here.
- What are the words to the Rice-A-Roni jingle?
- Rice-A-Roni, The San Francisco Treat! Rice-A-Roni, Its flavor can't be beat One pan, no boiling, cooking ease A flavor that is sure to please, Rice-A-Roni The San Francisco Treat! Ding! Ding!
- Why do people call Rice-A-Roni the San Franciso Treat?
- Rice-A-Roni is called “The San Francisco Treat” because the company and the product have their origins there.