What is Black Rice?
We recently shared a detailed piece on black foods that are healthier than superfoods. One black food that is trending these days is ‘Black Rice’. According to food historians, the ancient Chinese believed that black rice is healthy food and that is how it was introduced in their cuisine. In India, it’s grown in the north-eastern state of Manipur, where it’s known as Chak-hao. As per experts, it's tricky to grow and in the past, only rich people could afford it and that’s why it became popular as the forbidden or the emperor’s rice. Scroll down to know its benefits and simple culinary uses. (Image: istock)
Also read: 10 black foods that are healthier than superfoods
Rich in antioxidants
It has been found that black rice is rich in 23 types of antioxidants and has the highest antioxidant activity of all rice varieties. Apart from that they are also rich in protein, fibre, and iron.(Image: istock)
Good for heart
Rich in flavonoids, they help improve HDL (good) cholesterol levels and significantly reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.(Image: istock)
Anti-cancer properties
They are also rich in anthocyanins and it has been proven that anthocyanin-rich foods are associated with a lower risk of colorectal cancer. According to experts, further in-depth study about this is still pending.(Image: istock)
Improves eyesight
Black rice is rich in antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, both of which have been shown to protect the retina from damaging free radicals.(Image: istock)
Aids weight loss
As a rich source of fibre and protein, it helps reduce appetite and increases the feeling of fullness and hence, aids weight loss.(Image: istock)
Culinary uses of black rice
From kheer to tea, this variety of rice can be used in many ways. Black rice has a tantalizing aroma and it can be used even for biryani. According to experts, the water used for cooking rice can be reused for rice-based drinks at home as well.(Image: istock)
Black Rice Kheer Recipe
Soak 1/2 cup black rice for 3-5 hours. In a pan, add 8 cups milk and bring it to boil. Add soaked rice and cook on low heat. Keep stirring and cook till the milk has reduced to about 1/2 the quantity. Once done, switch off the flame, add sugar/jaggery, nuts and cardamom powder. Mix well, refrigerate and serve chilled.(Image: istock)
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