We know of the common white rice and brown rice but black rice? This rice from Asia is not really black but more of a deep purple. It has been commonly used as a condiment or dressing and sometimes used as a decoration for desserts. Black rice has many important nutrients such as iron, and fiber. According to a study presented at the 240th National Meeting of the American Chemical Society (ACS), “one spoonful of black rice bran contains more antioxidants than a spoonful of blueberries also, black rice offers more fiber and vitamin E antioxidants, but less sugar.” Here are some more facts about black rice:
·One serving of Black rice (1/4 c.) provides 1.5 g of fat, 2 g of fiber and 34 g of carbohydrate and 160 calories.
·Black rice takes slightly longer to cook then white rice and needs two cups of water of each cup of rice, it will take 25-30 minutes to cook.
·Most grocery stores do not yet carry black rice, but you may find it at an Asian market. It can also be ordered online.
·Black rice is used in a number of products ranging from flour, black rice chocolate, noodles, tea, milk and soaps and skin creams.
·In ancient times, black rice was considered a rare commodity and only reserved for royalty, in fact even stealing a handful of black rice was punishable by death.
Here are a few recipes for dishes made with black rice:
Japanese Sautéed Firm Tofu & Black Rice
Assistance Provided by:Â Christina Wolfe