Since it was founded by Brian and Scott Rudolph, Banza Pasta has taken over plates across the nation one household at a time. Banza is the fastest growing pasta brand in the country, going from an idea to Whole Foods and Target shelves in just over three years.
After branching out with extreme success into the mac and cheese industry, the Banza team knew that they wanted to continue to deliver delicious and nutrient-dense food to forks everywhere.
That’s where the new product development team comes in. They’ve been working hard to discover the next big starchy product for Banza to transform using the power of chickpeas. Substituting chickpeas for conventional grains results in a product that’s higher in both protein and fiber and lower in carbs.
So, what’s next on Banza’s secret swap list? Rice.
Although rice has long been praised by nutrition fanatics everywhere, Banza’s versions pack more protein and fiber into every serving than conventional rice, no matter what kind.
Banza Chickpea Rice
With 11 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber in every quarter cup serving, Banza chickpea rice boasts three times the protein and double the fiber of traditional rice. That also means 30% fewer net carbs. Additionally, while I’ve always struggled with cooking rice just right, the instructions for Banza are #soeasyacavemancoulddoit. All you need to do is boil water, cook for 5 to 6 minutes, rinse, and then eat.
Banza Tricolor Legume Rice
In a surprising twist, Banza has branched out from only chickpeas to introduce a fun, colorful version of their new rice. This version gets its three colors from chickpeas, red lentils, and green peas, which happen to be the first three ingredients on the label. It still has 10 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber in every serving, so you might as well make your plate a little colorful.
Breakfast, lunch, dinner, oh my!
Although I can imagine you have plenty of ideas swimming around your head for Banza rice already, I thought I’d give you a sneak peek into what Banza’s recipe developers have already tested out for you. It’s time to get crazy with international flavors because rice is one ingredient that’s truly found around the world.
If you’re craving a little asian food, try brussels sprouts fried chickpea rice. It’s especially delicious with a fried egg and runny yolk on top. For an option with a little extra protein, try making an orange shrimp rice bowl.
For a more greek twist, try mixing lots of fresh herbs with your rice to make tabbouleh. Top with extra veggies and crispy halloumi cheese for a satisfying bowl.
The options are nearly endless. Looking for Spanish food? Banza can make an excellent paella. Tex Mex? Try a burrito bowl with grilled corn and be sure to add a large squeeze of fresh lime juice. Fan of seafood? Poke should be the first recipe you make.
Starting this week of February 19th, 2019, Banza Chickpea Rice and Banza Tricolor Legume Rice will be available exclusively at Whole Foods across the United States.