If you are wondering “what is the best way to cook black rice?” then don’t worry because this article of mine is exactly what you are looking for. You can also see people ask How to cook Forbidden Rice, it has the same meaning.
1. Why is black rice called forbidden rice?
Black rice is only used by the aristocracy. It was planted in minimal quantities and was closely monitored by the feudal Chinese government at the time. Chinese people are often not allowed to grow or consume this type of black rice, which is why black rice is called “forbidden rice.”
2. Should soak Black Rice before cooking?
If you want to shorten the time to cook and make the nutrients in black rice easier to absorb, you should soak it overnight.
Note: Certain brands of black rice do not need soaking. Therefore, do read the package before cooking and skip the soaking step.
3. How healthy is Black Rice?
Black rice contains more nutrients and fibers than other kinds of rice. It can help you limit heart disease and diabetes, as well as the risk of developing cancer. Also, black rice is high in antioxidants and Vitamin E, consuming black rice can improve skin, and boost immunity. If you wondering whether black rice contains gluten? The answer is no
4. How To Cook Black Rice
Ingredients
- 1 cup Black Rice
- 2 cups of water
- ½ teaspoon salt (optional)
- A pot with a lid & a bowl or A rice cooker & a fork/spatula
Instructions – The Absorption Method
Step 1: Put the black rice in a bowl and wash it thoroughly 2-3 times by rubbing the rice with your hands. Drain the water. Add filtered water and soak the rice overnight.
Step 2: Take a medium-sized pot. Drain the soaked black rice and add it to the pot. Pour 2 cups of water. (*Add ½ teaspoon salt seasoning if desired)
Step 3: Place the pot on the stove at medium-high heat and let the water come to a boil. When water starts to boil, close the lid, and reduce the heat to low, and cook black rice for 25 minutes.
Step 5: Once done, turn off the heat and let the black rice sit for 5 to 10 minutes then uncover the lid and fluff rice, serve. You can enjoy the soft steamed black rice with your choice of veggies, meat, or fish.
Instructions – Rice Cooker Method
Step 1: Rinse the black rice by putting it on a filter and running cold tap water for about 1 -2 minutes. Soak the washed black rice for 7-8 hours.
Step 2: Drain the water from the soaked rice and transfer 1 cup of black rice to the rice cooker then add in 1 3/4 cups of water and salt. Stir and cover with the lid.
Step 3: Turn on the rice cooker and let it cook. It will take 25-30 minutes of cooking time, after which the rice cooker will switch to warm mode automatically.
Step 4: Uncover the lid, fluff the rice with a fork/spatula, and serve.
You can enjoy the rice along with savory curries/gravy or serve as a sweet dish. Over-boiled sticky black rice can be relished as a dessert with powdered sugar and grated coconut topping.
Now, you know How to Cook Black Rice on the stove & in the rice cooker. Hopefully, this article has answered your questions and doesn’t let you down.
Read More: How To Cook Perfect Rice