What does parboiled mean?
Parboiled means that something has been boiled only partly, usually as the first stage of a longer cooking process. The technique is especially familiar in the preparation of rice, but it can also be applied to potatoes and other vegetables. Partial boiling helps the food begin cooking at the centre while allowing some of its starch to move into the water; the cooking liquid may then be used in the finished dish. Parboiled rice consequently tends to remain more distinct and less sticky than rice cooked entirely in one stage, although the result varies by variety and method. The word is also used as the past tense and past participle of the verb “parboil.” Although “parboiled” can sound like a more intense form of “boiled,” its practical purpose is controlled, preliminary cooking rather than prolonged boiling.
Describing food that has been partially boiled before further cooking.
"Add the parboiled rice to the pan and cook it in the seasoned stock."
Most often used attributively in established food combinations such as “parboiled rice” and “parboiled potatoes.”
To boil food partially in preparation for further cooking.
"Parboil the potatoes for eight minutes, then drain them thoroughly."
Normally used in culinary instructions and commonly encountered in the past tense or past participle.
Parboiling sounds intensive, but it means only partly boiling—an old technique that helps rice and potatoes cook more evenly.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does parboiled come from?
The word entered English from Dutch, where the culinary term meant “to boil partially.” It belongs to a family of forms found in several European languages, including Portuguese and Spanish words carrying the same sense. In English, the expression developed in cookery and remains especially associated with partially cooked rice and potatoes.
Related word forms
How parboiled is actually used
The term is especially common in culinary contexts involving rice, potatoes, and other vegetables. As a verb form, it normally appears in the past tense or past participle.