Black Rice Recipe (Forbidden Rice) - A Spicy Perspective (2024)

FAQs

What is the difference between black rice and forbidden rice? ›

Forbidden rice is a whole grain rice that is part of the Oryza sativa L. family that originated in China more than 4,000 years ago. Forbidden rice comes in different types and varieties, but collectively, they are all types of black rice.

Black rice, which often turns dark purple once cooked, has a mild, nutty taste similar to brown rice. Also referred to as "forbidden rice," it's a great source of iron, vitamins and antioxidants.

Black rice (also known as forbidden black rice or emperor's rice) is used in traditional Chinese medicine. It was once reserved only for the wealthy and powerful to ensure their health and long life. No one else was allowed to eat it.

Black rice is not as easy to grow as other rice varieties because it only yields about 10 percent of the harvest that other rice varieties do. That makes the rice very expensive, which is why it was initially reserved only for the richest of the rich—which meant Chinese royalty at the time it was first discovered.

When they went to the market to buy some, they learned that black rice is called hei mei in Chinese, but is also referred to as 'longevity rice' or 'tribute rice', because according to legend in the Sung and Tang Dynasties (about 900 CE) it was reserved for the emperors to ensure their good health and long life.

Black rice might be an excellent dietary choice for diabetic people. The phenolic compounds present in black rice may help reduce blood glucose levels. However, if you have diabetes, you are advised to strictly adhere to your doctor's advice.

However, overconsumption of black rice does not lead to severe complications apart from some minor symptoms. The minor side effects of black rice include an upset stomach, gas, or bloating. This generally happens due to the high fibre content present in black rice.

Can I eat black rice every day? As with most delicious things in life, it's all about moderation. “Black rice is high in fiber, which is a good thing overall, but don't overdo it, since eating too much fiber too quickly could cause an upset stomach or gas,” warns Allen.

By soaking black rice 30 minutes before cooking, you'll end up with a more tender and moist texture. Otherwise, you can also prepare it straight from the jar for a texture that's firmer and more chewy. Get the right ratio. 1 cup of black rice is best prepared with 2 cups of water.

While not as common as other types of rice, black rice is the highest in antioxidant activity and contains more protein than brown rice. As such, eating it may offer several health benefits, including boosting eye and heart health, protecting against certain forms of cancer, and aiding weight loss.

Which is better, quinoa or black rice? ›

Definitely, Quinoa is healthier than rice. Although they provides same calories but quinoa has lesser amount of carbs as compare to rice. Quinoa is also rich in dietary fibre and other nutrients like proteins, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc as compared to rice.

Fact: Cooking black rice may take slightly longer than white rice, but it is not particularly difficult. It can be steamed, boiled, or cooked in a rice cooker just like other varieties of rice. Myth 5: Black rice is hard to digest. Fact: Black rice is not inherently difficult to digest.

Black rice is a cultivated form of wild rice, but gluten-free black rice has the highest amount of anthocyanin. Therefore, even though black and wild rice have a great nutritional value with the protein, B complex, minerals, folate, and antioxidants, black rice is better than wild rice.

Research shows that black rice has the highest antioxidant activity of all the varieties, making it a nutritious choice ( 9 ). Antioxidants are compounds that protect cells from damage caused by an excess of molecules called free radicals, which contribute to oxidative stress ( 10 ).

Real black rice becomes red when you add white venegar to it. Dyed rice doesn't change color with white venegar.

This dark-colored rice, which is a deep purple-black, has alternate names including purple rice, forbidden rice, and emperor's rice. It has a rich, complex flavor, with a distinct nuttiness and a hint of sweetness from the anthocyanin pigments.

Of course, there are also different health benefits based on the varying types of rice. For example, whole grains are better for our health when compared to simple carbs – which is why brown rice or black rice are regarded as the healthiest options. You should certainly be looking into eating whole grain rice.

The bottom line

While not as common as other types of rice, black rice is the highest in antioxidant activity and contains more protein than brown rice. As such, eating it may offer several health benefits, including boosting eye and heart health, protecting against certain forms of cancer, and aiding weight loss.