And it's also known for its inclusion in signature dishes in countries such as Italy, Indonesia and China. Not only this, but in some cultures, the rice goddess Dewi Sri is even worshipped as the inspirer of Bali’s rice farming and the God of Sustenance.

There are so many ways to prepare rice; it can be fried, steamed and boiled and works as a great carbohydrate in almost any meal. Some popular rice dishes include Spanish paella, Italian arancini, Indonesian Nasi Goreng, Chinese fried rice and Indian biryani that are all delicious and relatively easy to make. Not only is rice versatile, it also has plenty of nutrients including fibre, magnesium and vitamin B and being a naturally gluten free grain, it is also easy on digestion and a good option for those who suffer with intolerances.