Oleogel for improving the texture and flavor in rice cooking: Preparation from natural wax and rice bran oil and characterization

This study involved the preparation and characterization of oleogels from rice bran oil with different waxes and the potential application in improving the texture and flavor in rice cooking. The findings revealed a substantial improvement in rice texture with the addition of oleogel, particularly noteworthy at a 3% (w/w) incorporation of RBW (Rice Bran Wax). Under this condition, the hardness reached 15.75N, and stickiness measured 2.16N. The incorporation of 1–3% (w/w) oleogel significantly enhances the color vibrancy of rice during the cooking process, resulting in an increase in the L* value of the rice from 73.86 to 73.95-76.74. Sensory evaluation revealed higher scores for BW (Bee Wax) and RBW at 40.68 and 40.23 points, respectively. Microscopic structural analysis indicated that the incorporation of RBW oleogel led to rice samples with the smallest pores, contributing to a more refined internal pore structure in the grains. In the control rice, 7 aldehyde compounds were detected with a relative content of 43.44%. The addition of oleogel increased the number of aldehyde compounds to 9, with a relative content of 48.06%. This study expands the potential applications of oleogels in rice cooking, enriching flavor profiles and presenting opportunities for integration into the food industry.