Monday Challenge:
Blueberries are widely regarded as one of the healthiest things you can eat. But did you know that there is a grain with more anthocyanins than blueberries?
Surprisingly, that grain is black rice!
In ancient China, it’s said that black rice was considered so unique and nutritious that it was forbidden for all but royalty.
Also called forbidden rice or purple rice, black rice is naturally gluten-free, high in protein and a great source of fiber. It also has high amounts of lutein and zeaxanthin which are associated with eye health.
Cooking black rice is easy and similar to cooking brown rice.
To prepare black rice, simply combine 1 cup rice and 2 cups water or veggie stock in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Once boiling, cover it and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the rice for 30–35 minutes, or until it’s tender, chewy, and all the liquid has been absorbed. Let rest 5 minutes. Fluff with fork.
Keep the rice from becoming gummy when cooking by rinsing the rice under cool water before cooking to remove the extra starch on the surface.
Or use your Instant Pot to keep it simple - add 1 cup of rinsed black rice with 1 1/2 cup liquid and cook for 15 minutes.
Once your rice is ready, use it in any dish in which you would use brown rice, such as in a grain bowl, stir-fry, salad, or rice pudding.
Black rice is more than just a nutritious grain. When cooked, its deep purple color can turn even the most basic meal into a visually stunning dish.
So next time you head to the grocery store, treat yourself like royalty and pick up some black rice. 👑
Your challenge this week is to enjoy black rice.
How do you plan to enjoy black rice?
Post in the comments below and let me know.
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